126.1.1 : Grammar, Sentence Structure, and WritingThe graduate applies appropriate grammatical rules, sentence structure, and writing conventions.
126.1.2 : Rhetoric and Analyzing WritingThe graduate selects appropriate rhetorical strategies that improve writing and argumentation.
126.1.3 : Writing Style, Citations, and Use of SourcesThe graduate appropriately uses a given writing style.
126.1.4 : Writing and Revision ProcessThe graduate uses appropriate writing and revision strategies.
126.1.5 : Working with SourcesThe graduate integrates credible and relevant sources into written arguments.
126.1.7 : Argumentative WritingThe graduate composes an appropriate argumentative essay for a given context.Introduction
A causal analysis asks you to examine either the causes of a problem, why the problem has happened, or what factors have led to a particular problem. To write an effective causal analysis essay the thesis and body paragraphs should focus on 2–4 specific causes (i.e., actions, events, thoughts, attitudes, conditions, or decisions) that have led to the problem you have identified. Writing about causes is an important skill in academic, professional, and real-world contexts, and the ability to identify the causes of a problem is essential in persuasive writing.Scenario
Identify a social, environmental, or political problem that is of local, national, or global concern.Assumptions
Requirements
Note: Be sure to focus only on the causes of the problem in this paper; do not consider effects or solutions.
A. Write a causal analysis essay (suggested length of 3–7 pages). In your essay, do the following:1. Address an appropriate topic.2. Provide an effective introduction.3. Provide an appropriate thesis statement that previews two to four causes.4. Explain the causes of the problem.5. Provide evidence to support your claim.6. Provide an effective conclusion.
B. Include at least two academically credible sources in the body of your essay.1. For your sources, include all in-text citations and references in APA format.
C. Demonstrate professional communication in the content and presentation of your submission.
Note: For definitions of terms commonly used in the rubric, see the Rubric Terms web link included in the Evaluation Procedures section.
Note: When using sources to support ideas and elements in an assessment, the submission MUST include APA formatted in-text citations with a corresponding reference list for any direct quotes or paraphrasing. It is not necessary to list sources that were consulted if they have not been quoted or paraphrased in the text of the assessment.
Note: No more than a combined total of 30% of a submission can be directly quoted or closely paraphrased from outside sources, even if cited correctly. For tips on using APA style, please refer to the APA Handout web link included in the APA Guidelines section.
Note: Tasks may not be submitted as cloud links, such as links to Google Docs, Google Slides, OneDrive, etc., unless specified in the task requirements. All other submissions must be file types that are uploaded and submitted as attachments (e.g., .docx, .pdf, .ppt).
