Writing discursive compositions (Secondary Level) (Part 4): Introduction of discursive essays (cause and effect)

By Patrick Tay


(To read part 3, please visit HERE.)


Continuing on our discussion regarding the introduction of discursive writings, let’s move on to the technique of cause and effect. While the technique of historical developments emphasizes on possessing prior knowledge of the subject matter, the technique of cause and effect focuses more on the causal relations between elements, and is only suitable for certain questions.


Put it simply, if A (cause) happens, then B (effect) will happen.


So, if someone smokes, they put their health at risk. If haze spreads in a country, the weather will turn warmer. If global warming persists, temperatures on Earth may rise for good. If a country is politically stable, crime rates may decrease over time.


Consider the following question (of which the cause and effect technique can be applied):


i. Discuss the causes and consequences of global warming.


ii. Examine why the young pick up smoking and the impact of smoking on them.


iii. What are the solutions to low birth rates in Singapore?


iv. Analyze the issue of a greying population in developed countries.


v. Highlight the possible circumstances under which a flu outbreak can occur and discuss the consequences.


Now, let’s examine how to write the introductions for two of the above questions:


i. Discuss the causes and consequences of global warming.


Source


Introduction:


“Much have been discussed about how humans contribute to global warming. There are many arguments on these causes but a common consensus is that one of the main contributors to global warming is CO2 emissions (specifically anthropogenic CO2 emissions), which is an output of human activities in various forms, such as exhaust fumes from vehicles, as well as emissions from coal and natural gas-powered plants. These contributors are not just from individuals but from groups and industries as well, and they happen on a global scale. Global warming has resulted in the destruction of both the ecosystem and the Earth's landscapes - through stronger hurricanes and cyclones, desertification, rising sea levels, and decreases in snow cover and sea ice. Now, let’s examine these causes and effects of global warming in greater detail. “


ii. Examine why the young pick up smoking and the impact of smoking on them.


Source


Introduction:


“The causes behind the young picking up smoking are varied. It could be circumstantial (as one succumbs to peer influence) or it could be intentional (as one develops a smoking habit and uses it as a social tool to assimilate into influential social groups which do smoke). Some smoke to relieve anxiety and stress, while others smoke due to habitual tendencies. However, regardless of the causes of smoking among the young, the effects of smoking post largely detrimental risks to their health. “


In my next post, I shall continue to explore the writing of introductions for discursive essays via the technique of using case studies.


To continue to part 5, visit HERE.


The above post was published with the permission of English writing specialist Mr Patrick Tay. This first appeared on his BLOG.