Arranging Speech Points Using a Problem-Solution Pattern

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The problem-solution pattern of arrangement organizes main points to demonstrate the nature and significance of a problem and to provide justification for a proposed solution. This type of arrangement, most often used in persuasive 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 cyberbullying arranged in a problem-solution format (for more on the problem-solution pattern, see Chapter 24).

THESIS STATEMENT: To combat cyberbullying, we need to educate the public about it, report it when it happens, and punish the offenders.
MAIN POINT:

MAIN POINT:

MAIN POINT:

MAIN POINT:
  1. Nature of cyberbullying
    1. Types of activities involved
      1. Name-calling, insults
      2. Circulation of embarrassing pictures
      3. Sharing private information
      4. Threats
    2. Incidence of bullying
    3. Profile of offenders
  2. Effects of cyberbullying on victims
    1. Acting out in school
    2. Feeling unsafe in school
    3. Skipping school
    4. Experiencing depression
  3. Unsuccessful attempts at solving cyberbullying
    1. Let offenders and victims work it out on their own
    2. Ignore problem, assuming it will go away
  4. Ways to solve cyberbullying
    1. Educate in schools
    2. Report incidents to authorities
    3. Suspend or expel offenders