Cause and Effect

A Mini Lesson by Diana Dell, Ed.S.
A cause is something that makes something else happen. Out of two events, it is the event that happens first. To determine the cause, ask the question "Why Did it Happen?"

An effect is what happens as a result of the cause. Of two related events, it’s the one that happens second or last. To determine the effect, ask the question "What Happened?"

Practice pairing causes and effects with these activities:http://www.quia.com/mc/94601.htmlhttp://www.quia.com/mc/20632.html

At times connecting words are used to link the cause and effect. Examples of connecting words are:
because, so, consequently, therefore, due to the fact, since, as a result, the reason for, thus, nevertheless

Practice selecting connecting words for sentences with this activity:http://www.smccd.net/accounts/sevas/esl/gramcheck/8-7.html

Spring into Speech

Over the past several weeks, Speech/Language groups at Prairieview and Lakeview have been focusing on conversation, carryover of articulation skills, and applying vocabulary strategies. As the school year winds down Mrs. DeYoung's third, fourth, and fifth graders will be practicing speaking in front of a group. These students will share favorite poems, prepare oral presentations, and complete story-telling activities. Jr. High students will complete a final written essay as well as practice oral presentation skills.

Carryover Practice

Here are some ideas for carryover activities that you can try with your child: • Ask your child to read out loud from a story book, cartoon or magazine that he chooses. • Let your child talk on the phone to a friend or relative. • Play a game together or with a group of people. • Role play an interview with someone your child admires. • Trade roles with your child and let him correct you. • With your child, choose a special time each day that he will use good speech, for example, at lunch or dinner time every day or every time he is in the car. Your child may want to tie a string around his finger or use other prompts to remind him to speak well. • Ask your child to tell a story he knows in his own words. • Have a conversation together.