Unit 5
The Cause and Effect Pattern
Cause and effect pattern is concerned with why things happen (causes) and what happens as a
result (effects). Cause and effect is a common method of organizing and discussing ideas.
Cause/effect paragraphs generally follow basic paragraph format. That is, they begin with a topic
sentence which is followed by specific supporting details. For example, if the topic sentence
introduces an effect, the supporting sentences all describe causes.
Transitional words and phrases
For Causes
because
because of
due to
on cause is, another is
since
for
first, second
For Effects
consequently as a result for this reason thus resulted in one result is, another is therefore
Sample1
Topic: In recent decades, cities have grown so large that now about 50% of the Earth's population
lives in urban areas.
In recent decades, cities have grown so large that now about 50% of the Earth's population
lives in urban areas. (Effect) There are several reasons for this. (Cause) First, the increasing
industrialization of the 19th century resulted in the creation of many factory jobs. These jobs, with
their promise of a better material life, attracted many people from rural areas. (Cause) Second, as
the cities grew, people established places of leisure, entertainment, and culture, such as sports
stadiums, theaters, and museums. For many people, these facilities made city life appear more
interesting than life on the farm, and therefore drew them away from rural communities.
Sample2
Topic:The change of price will lead to the change of demand.
The change of price will lead to the change of demand. the price of everything from
toothpaste to tuition increases, workers demand higher wages to keep up with rising costs. This production tries to keep pace with demand, decreased demand is followed by decreased
production. This can layoffs and unemployment, which further decreases the