After Reading

Writing from the Real World Write an essay in which you explain a cause-and-effect relationship that you consider important or interesting. You can explore how multiple causes lead to a single effect or how a single cause leads to multiple effects.

Writing Workshop

Writing Prompts

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WRITING PROMPT 1

Cause-and-Effect Essay

Topics to Consider

• an accomplishment of yours, such as winning a game or dramatically improving your grade in a class

• a scientific phenomenon, such as an eclipse or a comet

• a historical event, such as the French Revolution or the stock market crash of 1929

After Reading

Writing from Literature Write an essay that traces a cause-and-effect relationship in a work of fiction or nonfiction.

Writing Workshop

Writing Prompts

WRITING PROMPT 2

Cause-and-Effect Essay

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Topics to Consider

• the causes and effects of a tragedy (“Blowup: What Went Wrong at Storm King Mountain”)

• the causes and effects that drive a particular character’s actions (“The Possibility of Evil”)

After Reading

Writing from the Real World Select a common product, such as a car, a washing machine, or athletic shoes. Write a proposal for manufacturing funds that “sells” the effects that consumers can expect if they purchase the product.

Writing Workshop

Writing Prompts

WRITING PROMPT 3

Cause-and-Effect Essay

. . .continued

After Reading

Writing Inspired by Photography In an online museum or a book, find a photograph that depicts a group of people involved in an intriguing situation. Imagine you are one of the people, and jot down the chain of events that might have led to the photograph. Then, write a brief essay about these events.

Writing Workshop

Writing Prompts

WRITING PROMPT 4

Cause-and-Effect Essay