What happened and why?
what makes something happen Cause To find the cause, ask yourself: What happened first?
what happens because of something else Effect To find the effect, ask yourself: What happened second?
Authors give clues!!! Authors use clue words to help us find cause and effect. The most common clue words are: because if so when then therefore since as a result
Mark fell because he slipped on the ice. CLUE WORD!!!!! EFFECT CAUSE
If you study hard, you will make good grades. CLUE WORD!!!!! CAUSE EFFECT
The boy was shocked when the door opened. CLUE WORD!!!!! CAUSE EFFECT
The snake startled the boy so he jumped. CLUE WORD!!!!! CAUSE EFFECT
Dad got dirty then he took a shower. CLUE WORD!!!!! CAUSE EFFECT
My mom has been sick since she ate. CLUE WORD!!!!! CAUSE EFFECT
Eric lied to his dad, therefore he’s in trouble. CLUE WORD!!!!! CAUSE EFFECT
Since you were late, you’ve missed dinner. CLUE WORD!!!!! CAUSE EFFECT
My room is dirty as a result of my laziness. CLUE WORD!!!!! CAUSE EFFECT
Tom laughed when mom told the joke. CLUE WORD!!!!! EFFECT CAUSE
If you miss a lot of school you won’t learn. CLUE WORD!!!!! CAUSE EFFECT
School was out because of the snow. CLUE WORD!!!!! CAUSE EFFECT
If the teacher is out the kids will behave. CLUE WORD!!!!! CAUSE EFFECT
He jumped because of the loud noise. CLUE WORD!!!!! EFFECT CAUSE
He is a good reader as a result of practice. CLUE WORD!!!!! CAUSE EFFECT
She loves chocolate therefore she eats it. CLUE WORD!!!!! CAUSE EFFECT