7 th Grade Language Arts

Definitions:  (noun) something that brings about a result or effect  (verb) to serve as the reason for something For example: The building was torn down because it was extremely damaged. The cause is the damage to the building. The word “because” is a signal word.

Definitions:  (noun) a result or outcome For example: As a result of the rain, we had a flood in our basement. The effect is the flood in the basement. The signal words “as a result of” show how the effect occurred.

 When you want to show a cause and effect relationship between two situations, you can use signal words.  Signal words are words that signal a cause and its effect.  For example: We saw the play; therefore, we understood the importance of being earnest. “Therefore” indicates that the play was the cause of them understanding something new. We understood the importance of being earnest after seeing the play. “After” indicates that their understanding was an effect of seeing the play.

Cause/Effect Signal Words As a result Therefore Then Before After Consequently Thus Since So Because If Due to

 To help your “organize” a cause and effect relationship, you can use a block chart  This type of organizer can help you identify multiple causes and effects in a text

 A block chart helps link causes directly to their effects  It looks something like this: Cause #1 Cause #2 Cause #3 Effect #1 Effect #2 Effect #3

 A block chart helps link causes directly to their effects  It looks like this: Ralph buys a cat Ralph realizes he is allergic to cats Ralph is sad Ralph can’t stop sneezing Ralph has to get rid of the cat Ralph decides to get a turtle instead

 Copy down this empty block chart in your notebook. 1. Write one event or situation in the Cause #1 box 2. Then, pass your notebook to a shoulder partner 3. He or she will write an event or situation in the Event #1 box 4. Keep passing notebooks back and forth till all of the boxes are filled in Cause #1 Cause #2 Cause #3 Effect #1 Effect #2 Effect #3