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Writing for Change: Problem-Solution Essays on Domestic Violence

Anything
Year 12
English

Writing for Change: Problem-Solution Essays on Domestic Violence

fig 1: A professional illustration of a purple ribbon and supportive hands symbolizing domestic violence awareness and social solidarity for a writing prompt.
fig 1: A professional illustration of a purple ribbon and supportive hands symbolizing domestic violence awareness and social solidarity for a writing prompt.


Introduction to Problem-Solution Writing

In Year 12 English, mastering the Problem-Solution essay structure is essential for addressing complex social issues like domestic violence. This writing style requires you to clearly define a situation, identify a specific problem within it, propose viable solutions, and evaluate their potential effectiveness. This is often referred to as the SPSE framework: Situation, Problem, Solution, and Evaluation.


Activity 1: Matching Key Concepts

Match the following terms and essay components (1–5) with their correct definitions or roles (A–E).
Term/Component
Definition/Role
1. Structural Inequality
A. A proposed action to mitigate or resolve the identified issue.
2. Thesis Statement
B. The specific part of the essay that evaluates the success or limitations of a proposal.
3. Intervention
C. Societal systems that disadvantage certain groups, often contributing to domestic violence.
4. Evaluation
D. A brief description of the context and background of the social issue.
5. Situation
E. The core argument that outlines both the problem and the proposed direction of the essay.


Activity 2: Labeling the Introduction

Read the following introductory paragraph for an essay on domestic violence. Identify and label the components listed below by writing the correct letter next to the corresponding sentence.
Components to Label:
  • [H] Hook
  • [C] Context/Background
  • [P] Problem Statement
  • [T] Thesis/Solution Overview
(1) Imagine a home where the very people who should provide safety become the sources of fear. (2) Across Australia, statistics suggest that one in four women has experienced physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner. (3) While legislative changes have been made, the persistence of these figures highlights a critical failure in current social support systems and early intervention strategies. (4) To effectively reduce domestic violence, society must prioritize comprehensive school-based education programs alongside increased funding for specialized community crisis centers.


Activity 3: Reordering the Argument

The following sentences form a body paragraph about the role of technology in providing solutions. However, they are out of order. Reorder the statements (A–E) to create a logical, cohesive paragraph.
  • A. Consequently, these digital tools can provide a lifeline for those who are unable to leave their homes or seek help in person.
  • B. One innovative solution involves the development of discreet smartphone applications that allow victims to record evidence and signal for help silently.
  • C. In the modern era, technology often serves as a double-edged sword in domestic relationships.
  • D. For instance, some apps are disguised as everyday utilities, such as calculators, to ensure the perpetrator remains unaware of their true function.
  • E. However, when utilized ethically, technology can offer powerful mechanisms for safety and reporting.
Correct Order: ____, ____, ____, ____, ____


Activity 4: Cohesive Ties (Fill-in-the-Blanks)

Complete the following evaluation paragraph by choosing the most appropriate transition words from the box below.
Furthermore | However | Ultimately | For example | In addition
While community awareness campaigns are vital, they are not a complete solution on their own. (1) __________, they must be supported by robust legal frameworks that hold perpetrators accountable. (2) __________, when public education is paired with immediate police intervention, the message that violence is unacceptable is reinforced. (3) __________, many rural communities still lack the resources to implement these dual strategies effectively. (4) __________, funding must be distributed equitably to ensure that geographical location does not determine a victim’s safety. (5) __________, only a multi-faceted approach that combines education, law, and funding can hope to dismantle the cycle of domestic violence.