Chapter Twelve
Solving a Problem: Crime and Justice
b. Appeal to your audience.
i. Make the problem relevant to the audience.
ii. Connect the problem to its potential impact on the audience.
c. State your claim.
i. Your thesis may state that a problem exists and that something
needs to be done.
ii. Your thesis may state that a particular solution is the best way to
solve the problem.
d. Propose one or more solutions to the problem.
i. You might focus on a single solution, several solutions, or a
combination of solutions.
ii. Consider alternative solutions in order to show the reader that you
have considered various options.
e. Organize your solution(s) effectively.
i. Utilize option A (inductive approach):
1. Introduction and claim (thesis)
2. Explanation of problem
3. Support for proposed solution
4. Conclusion
ii. Utilize option B (deductive approach):
1. Introduction and explanation of problem
2. Solution one: evaluate pros and cons
3. Solution two: evaluate pros and cons
4. Solution three: evaluate pros and cons
5. Conclusion and final recommendation
f. Persuade your audience that your solution or combination of solutions is
feasible and worthwhile.
i. Show how the proposal will work or suggest the consequences that
may happen if nothing is done.
ii. Utilize personal knowledge and experience.
iii. Conduct research to back up your ideas.
iv. Cite your sources.
v. Avoid logical fallacies.
g. End with a call to action.
i. Summarize the problem and solution(s).
ii. Encourage your readers to take action if appropriate.
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