Writing a Problem Solving Thesis

1. Writing a Problem Solving Thesis Develop a formula

2. Experiment with Sentence Structure • X condition requires Y solution. • Because of X Condition, somebody should do something. • When X condition causes Y problems, somebody should do something. • While X solution seems to work well to solve y condition, Z solution actually works better.

3. Identify your Problem High school students struggle in 11th grade geography class which requires advanced map reading skills.

4. Examine the causes of the problem: As to why can’t 11 graders read maps? After reviewing the curriculum and the state standards for 6th graders, it is obvious that the curriculum isn’t strong enough. The emphasis on standardized testing performance takes away from time needed to refine 6th grade map skills. Some 6th grade teachers may not realize how important map skills will be in their students’ future studies.

5. Examine the Results (effects) of a weak 6th grade map reading curriculum 6th graders may be able to perform simple map reading skills satisfactorily, but by not mastering more difficult skills that should be taught in 6th grade geography they will not be successful in their 11th grade advanced geography class.

6. Identifying the problem Explain the status quo or the current condition: you have to show that change is necessary, that the current condition is not effective, adequate, working Examine the causes of the current deficiency in the status quo. How did things get this bad? Why isn’t the current policy working? Examine the effects or the results that the current problem creates. The deficiencies, the gaps, the challenges

7. Propose original solution(s) Solutions must: • be feasible, workable, possible • cost effective, affordable • actually solve the problem and not create more problems • Have more advantages than disadvantages

8. As you present your solutions, evaluate them Propose alternatives: • Rank in order of importance • Discuss advantages and disadvantages of each possible solution • Choose the best solution of the proposals you have suggested Offer only the best solution discuss it weakness emphasize its strengths

9. Writing the Thesis

10. Experiment with sentence structure • Students must know basic map reading skills in order to meet expected standards in high school geography; therefore, sixth grade teachers must make sure that their students meet those standards. • Map reading skills for sixth graders can be improved if the Colorado Department of Education strengthens the standards for sixth grade geography. • Even though the current map reading skills for sixth graders appear to be adequate, high school students struggle in advanced geography classes, so the Colorado Department of Education must strengthen the sixth grade geography standards.

11. Writing a thesis that proposes alternatives • In order to strengthen the 6th grade map reading skills, the Colorado Department should consider these alternatives: re-evaluate and strengthen the current standards for 6th grade geography, require geography teachers to get more training to improve their skill sets teaching map reading, and (or) restructure the eleventh grade geography curriculum to provide a adequate review of map reading skills.

12. You can present one solution—the best of all after careful consideration (spare the reader from all of the bad ideas). • You can present alternatives or possible solutions, making a recommendation for the best of the 3 (or however many you present). Begin with the worst and finish with the best. Explain with the others are not acceptable. • You can present a series of solutions that come in increments, steps, or phases.

13. How to write a problem solving thesis in 26 seconds