How it works
A solution means more when the reader has seen what failed. This problem and solution graphic organizer has room for two tries, and for what comes of each, before the solution at the foot.
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Stories and articles
In a story the problem belongs to a character, and the tries are events of the plot. In an article it often belongs to a group or a place, and the writer explains why it happens. The four-box sheet with arrows is laid out for an article.
Planning your own
For a persuasive essay or a letter, start with two possible solutions. Weighing them side by side gives the writer a reason for the choice, and the reason is the heart of the essay.
- A solution that causes a new problem is worth a second sheet.
- If the problem is never solved, write in the last box what the text says would solve it.
Questions and answers
What is a problem and solution graphic organizer?
A one-page frame with a box for a problem, boxes for what is tried and a box for what solves it. Readers fill it in from a story or an article. Writers use it to plan an essay.
What is problem and solution text structure?
A text built around a problem and what is done about it. The 4th grade Common Core reading standards list problem/solution with chronology, comparison and cause/effect as examples of the overall structure of a text.
What is the difference between problem and solution and cause and effect?
Cause and effect explains why something happened. Problem and solution starts from something that is wrong and follows what is done to fix it. A problem often has a cause, which is why the article sheet has a box for it.