Arranging Speech Points Using a Problem-Solution Pattern

The problem-solution pattern of arrangement organizes main points both to demonstrate the nature and significance of a problem and to provide justification for a proposed solution. This type of arrangement, generally used in persuasive rather than informative speeches, can be as general as two main points:

  1. Problem (define what it is)
  2. Solution (offer a way to overcome the problem)

But many problem-solution speeches require more than two points to adequately explain the problem and to substantiate the recommended solution:

  1. The nature of the problem (identify its causes, incidence, etc.)
  2. Effects of the problem (explain why it’s a problem, for whom, etc.)
  3. Unsatisfactory solutions (discuss those that have not worked)
  4. Proposed solution (explain why it’s expected to work)

The following is a partial outline of a persuasive speech about cyber-bullying arranged in a problem-solution format (for more on the problem-solution pattern, see Chapter 26):

THESIS STATEMENT: To combat cyber-bullying, we need to educate the public about it, report it when it happens, and punish the offenders.
MAIN POINT:
  1. Nature of cyber-bullying
    1. Types of activities involved
      1. Name-calling, insults
      2. Circulation of embarrassing pictures
      3. Sharing of private information
      4. Threats
    2. Incidence of bullying
    3. Profile of offenders
MAIN POINT:

II. Effects of cyber-bullying on victims

  1. Acting out in school
  2. Feeling unsafe in school
  3. Skipping school
  4. Experiencing depression
MAIN POINT:

III. Unsuccessful attempts at solving cyber-bullying

  1. Let offenders and victims work it out on their own
  2. Ignore problem, assuming it will go away
MAIN POINT:

IV. Ways to solve cyber-bullying

  1. Educate in schools
  2. Report incidences to authorities
  3. Suspend or expel offenders