Thesis Builder: Cause and Effect Essays

Activity: Begin with a quick class discussion about cause and effect in everyday life. Ask students to provide examples (e.g., "What happens if you don't water a plant?" or "What are the effects of studying hard for a test?").

Explain that understanding cause and effect helps in organizing our thoughts and structuring essays effectively.

1. Topic Introduction: Present the topic of cause and effect essays.
2. Thesis Builder Tool: Introduce the Thesis Builder tool (provide the link and demonstrate its use).
3. Example: Use a possible essay topic to demonstrate how to use the Thesis Builder tool. For instance, “The impact of social media on teenagers.”

• • Brainstorming Activity: Engage the class in brainstorming possible causes (e.g., peer pressure, access to information) and effects (e.g., anxiety, improved communication skills).
  • Thesis Statement: With class input, develop a thesis statement using the Thesis Builder tool.
  • Online Outline: Show how to select “Make an Online Outline” and explain what should be written in each paragraph based on the outline.

1. Activity: Allow students to choose an essay topic from a provided list or a specific topic based on recent classroom instruction.
2. Exploration: If possible, have students explore their topic using the Thesis Builder tool in a computer lab or on shared devices.
3. Collaboration: Students can work in pairs or small groups to brainstorm and create their thesis statements and outlines.

Possible Essay Topics:

1. The effects of climate change on the environment.
2. Causes and effects of obesity in children.
3. The impact of technology on education.
4. Causes and effects of pollution in urban areas.
5. The influence of video games on youth behavior.

1. Discussion: Go over each paragraph of the outline and discuss what should be written in each section.
2. Q&A: Allow time for questions and discussion to clarify any doubts.

1. Writing Time: Give students ample time to write their essays based on the outlines they have created.
2. Peer Review: If time permits, have students exchange essays for peer review and provide feedback.

Assessment and Feedback 

1. Review: Go over a few of the essays in class, noting some exceptional points made.
2. Feedback: Provide constructive feedback and highlight strong examples of cause-and-effect relationships in the essays.