Cause and effect — English definition

Defined in 2 courses:

Where it is taught

In use

Informational structures organize relationships such as sequence, cause and effect, comparison, or problem and solution.

Text Structures: Relationships That Organize Information

Cause and effect shows how one thing leads to another, flagged by words like 'because,' 'so,' and 'as a result.

Text Structure & Connections

Questions using cause and effect

Problem 1

Explain cause and effect in your own words and give an example from the assigned reading or a fresh sentence.
Answer and explanation

A relationship explaining how a condition or action contributes to an outcome. The unit case offers this example to examine: The procedure uses sequence to show an order of actions. The missing-record passage explains a category distinction and the consequence of confusing categories. Order alone does not establish that one event caused another; the second explanation gives a reason for a recording rule. Identify the wording or choice that fits the term. A different accurate example is acceptable.

Use the model to discuss reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; written work needs human marking.

Problem 2

A learner writes: “Because the article says ‘then,’ it proves cause and effect.” Explain the problem and produce a better response.
Answer and explanation

“Then” may indicate sequence. Explain the mechanism or evidence connecting events before calling one a cause of the other.

Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.

Response criteria

  • Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
  • Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
  • Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.

Problem 3

Correct this mistake in one or two sentences: “Because the article says ‘then,’ it proves cause and effect.”
Answer and explanation

“Then” may indicate sequence. Explain the mechanism or evidence connecting events before calling one a cause of the other.

Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.

Response criteria

  • Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
  • Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
  • Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.

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