Visual Lesson
Cause & Effect
A cause is the reason why something happens. The effect is what happens. See the link, then match them up.
Because it started to rain, we opened our umbrellas.
It started to rain, so we opened our umbrellas.
Signal words like because, so, and since link a cause to its effect.
Cause — the reason why something happens (it started to rain).
Effect — what happens because of it (we opened our umbrellas).
What is cause and effect?
In every story and every science lesson, one thing leads to another. The cause is the reason why something happens; the effect is what happens as a result. When the alarm rang (cause), everyone woke up (effect). Spotting that link is one of the most important reading-comprehension skills a young reader builds.
How to use this tool
- See it: a cause card and an effect card are joined by a big arrow. Tap either card to hear it, and read the pair two ways — “Because …, …” and “…, so …” — to feel how the signal words work. Press Next to see another example.
- Match it: three causes sit on the left and their effects are shuffled on the right. Tap a cause, then tap the effect it makes. A correct match locks in and draws a line between them; a wrong tap gives a gentle nudge so you can try again. Match them all for a cheer.
Signal words to watch for
Words like because, so, and since are clues that connect a cause to its effect. Noticing them helps readers explain why events happen and helps writers link their ideas clearly.
Why it helps
Practicing with short, real sentences — not just definitions — makes the pattern stick. Saying each pair out loud, and matching causes to effects by hand, turns an abstract idea into something kids can see and do. It works fully with the sound on or off.
Good for
Grades 2–6: early readers meeting cause and effect for the first time through upper-elementary comprehension and writing practice.
Bring it to a lesson
These tools pair with the full curriculum — guided lessons that teach each concept, then send you here to see it and practice.