To close this unit on Society, this writing lesson guides you through planning and drafting a structured essay about a social problem and its possible solutions, using the vocabulary, functions, and grammar you have studied so far.
Essay Structure and Linking Words
An essay about a social problem and its solutions usually follows a clear three-part structure:
- Introduction: introduce the social problem and state why it matters, ending with a sentence that announces the essay will discuss its causes/effects and possible solutions.
- Body: usually two paragraphs – one explaining the problem and its causes or effects, and one proposing realistic solutions.
- Conclusion: briefly summarise the main idea and add a final thought or call to action.
Linking words help connect your ideas clearly. Use because, since, as a result, therefore, consequently to show cause and effect, and in my opinion, I believe, personally, it seems to me that to introduce your opinion.
Model Essay
Model Essay: Youth Unemployment in Small Towns
Unemployment among young people is a growing problem in many towns today. Because there are few local job opportunities, many graduates leave their villages to look for work in big cities. As a result, small communities lose their most active members, and shops and services gradually close down.
In my opinion, there are practical solutions to this issue. Local authorities could offer free training courses so that young people gain skills employers actually need. In addition, governments should support small businesses with low-interest loans, since new companies create local jobs. Schools could also invite successful entrepreneurs to share their experience with students.
To conclude, youth unemployment has affected communities across the country, but with the right training and support, more young people could build a future close to home instead of leaving. I believe that small, consistent actions today can make a real difference tomorrow.
Practice Exercises
Exercise 1 — List the three main parts of an essay about a social problem and its solutions.
Exercise 2 — Give two linking words used to show cause and effect, from the lesson.
Exercise 3 — According to the model essay, why do many communities lose their most active members?
Exercise 4 — Name one solution proposed in the model essay to fight youth unemployment.
Exercise 5 — Rewrite this sentence using a linking word of opinion: ‘Governments should support small businesses.’
Exercise 6 — Write a short introduction (2-3 sentences) for an essay about discrimination in the workplace, following the structure taught in this lesson.
Answer Key
Answer 1 — Introduction, body, conclusion.
Answer 2 — Examples: ‘because’, ‘as a result’, ‘therefore’, ‘consequently’ (any two).
Answer 3 — Because there are few local job opportunities, young people leave to find work in big cities.
Answer 4 — Examples: free training courses, low-interest loans for small businesses, or entrepreneurs visiting schools (any one).
Answer 5 — Example: ‘In my opinion, governments should support small businesses.’
Answer 6 — Answers will vary. Example: ‘Discrimination in the workplace remains a serious issue in many countries. It affects employees’ confidence and limits their career opportunities. This essay will discuss the causes of workplace discrimination and suggest possible solutions.’
