Cause and Effect Organization

Which clue word signals an effect?

• Because

• As a result

• Since

• Due to

One reason streams become polluted is storm water runoff. When rain or melted snow runs off, it carries trash from sidewalks and streets with it. These pollutants flow into storm sewers or directly into a lake, stream or river. Then, bacteria from the trash spread to create health hazards. The trash itself can choke and suffocate ducks, fish, turtles, and birds. Used motor oil, paint, and insecticides can poison fish. According to this passage, which of the following is caused by storm water runoff?

• Swimming pools fill up.

• Snow melts and runs off.

• Trash chokes ducks, fish, and turtles.

• People leave trash on sidewalks and streets.

What causes Amelia to audition for school plays, sign up for acting classes, and subscribe to an acting magazine?

• Her determination to be a well-known actor.

• Her dream of being rich one day.

• Her determination to get the lead in the school play.

• Her willingness to try new activities.

Peter walked quickly down the dark street.  It was very quiet.  Suddenly, a dog howled.  Peter walked even faster after that.
CAUSE: A dog howled.
What was the EFFECT?

• Peter went inside.

• Everything was quiet.

• Peter walked even faster.

Jason and Kate were not alone on the path.  They could hear footsteps behind them.  "Walk quickly," whispered Jason.  "I think somebody is following us."
EFFECT: Jason thought somebody was following him.
What was the CAUSE?

• He could hear footsteps.

• He saw Kate on the path.

• He and Kate were alone.

Mr. Jones worked at the City Bank.  Every week he stole $100 and put it in his pocket.  One day he was caught.  Now Mr. Jones lives in the county jail.
EFFECT: Mr. Jones lives in the county jail.
What was the CAUSE?

• He works at the bank.

• He had a hole in his pocket.

• He was caught stealing money.

Name the red part of the sentence.
Jessica had a stomachache because she ate too many peanut butter cookies.

• Cause

• Effect

This is a relationship where one thing causes another thing to happen.

• Cause and Effect

• Chronological Order

• Connotative meaning

• Summary

Which of the following words signal cause-and-effect organization?

• since, as a result of, due to

• what, when, where

• how, how much, what kind

• before, after, nearly

Suri and Dawson are rock climbing. Suri decides to attempt a new skill she has learned. At first, she is successful, but then she loses her grip and falls. Suddenly, the safety ropes catch her, but she smashes her hand on the rock.

What is the effect of Suri's fall?

• Suri decides to try a new skill.

• Suri smashes her hand.

• At first, she is successful.

• Suri is rock climbing.