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