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ENG 112 Causal Analysis essay assignment
Course: Christian Worldview (CWV 101)
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University: Grand Canyon University
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ENG-112-I02-SU18 1
Causal Analysis essay assignment
Purpose
According to Ruskiewicz (2015), <We all analyze and explain things daily. Someone asks, 8Why?9 We
reply, 8Because&9 and then offer reasons and rationales= (p. 128). This type of thinking is at the core of
causal analysis.
You are to write a five- to eight-page causal analysis essay that explores, through careful research and
analysis, the causes or effects of an issue or problem in a professional field or subject area that interests
you. This project allows you to do research and learn more about your subject area and the
conversations surrounding it, while also encouraging you to grow as a writer, critical thinker and
steward of information.
Your causal project will be structured according to the classical Greek and Roman system. You will
acknowledge, in breadth and depth, the complexities of causal arguments. You may explore more than
one type of cause: necessary causes, sufficient causes, precipitating causes, proximate causes, remote
causes, reciprocal causes, contributing factors, or chains of causes.
Your paper will also reflect significant critical thinking as shown by engagement in pursuit of best
information; contextualization, prioritization and synthesis of information; analysis of different points of
view; and an examination of your own underlying assumptions as you journey through your scholarship.
In addition to the actual causal analysis essay, you will also submit a formal outline and an annotated
bibliography (assignments attached separately). This process work will help you focus and organize your
ideas and research in a beneficial way.
Note: The causal analysis is the first part of a larger causal-proposal project. Your next essay for this
class, the proposal essay, will be the second part, in which you will propose solutions or improvements
to the situation described in your causal argument. You do not need to have a clear idea about what
your proposal will be at this point – just make sure the topic or issue you choose for your causal analysis
leads toward some kind of proposal.
Structure
Following is an outline of the content and chronology of your causal analysis:
I. Introduction: In one (or at most two) paragraph(s), introduce your topic. Give a brief overview
of your topic and argument in a few sentences. Remember to include a thesis statement or
research question that specifically sets out what you are proving to be true regarding the causes
of the situation. Your claim should be specific, logical, and clear.
II. History/Background to the Current Situation: This section should take as much space as
needed – a few to several paragraphs. Discuss the significant and relevant history of your topic
up to the current situation and how it came to be. Use research as needed to give precise and
accurate context in later making your causal argument. Comment on your research as well, so
that you don9t lose your voice. As you explore other points of view, your own point of view will
evolve in significant ways.