1. Models for Writers – Chapter 20
Cause and Effect
Models for Writers – Chapter 20

2. When do you engage in cause and effect writing?
Every time you answer a question that asks why, you engage in the process of causal analysis – that is you try to determine a cause or series of causes for a particular effect.

3. Causal analysis
Sound reasoning and logic are central to any causal analysis
When writing cause/effect essays, writers do not allow their own prejudices interfere with the log of their analysis and presentations
Be cautious of logical fallacies- post hoc, ergo propter hos … “after this, therefore because of this…”

4. Readily apparent (because they are closest to the effect)
Immediate causes
Readily apparent (because they are closest to the effect)

5. Ultimate causes
Not as apparent (because they are somewhat removed and even hidden)

6. Causal chain
Ultimate causes may bring about effects that themselves become immediate causes, thus creating a causal chain.

7. Example
Sally, a computer salesperson, prepared extensively for a meeting with an important client (ultimate cause), impressed the client (immediate cause), and made a very large sale (chain effect). The chain did not stop there: the large sale caused her to be promoted by her employer (effect).

8. Now it’s your turn 
Read and annotate “I Think Therefore IM” by Jennifer Lee
Class will then discuss and respond to arguments made in the essay
After class discussion, it will be your turn to write a cause and effect paper
WRITING PROMPT: What are the effects of chronic use of instant messaging?
You are responding to this prompt by discussing the effects of excessive use of instant messaging and pointing out what causes those effects. You MUST use evidence from the reading to support your claims! (direct quotes and proper citations)