I can develop an argument using ‘addition’ or ‘cause and effect’, persuasion, discussion

I use this in year 5 and year 6 - I'm sure it could be useful for ages 7-14.

I can understand the meaning of ‘addition’ words and ‘cause and effect’ words
I can develop an argument using ‘addition’ or ‘cause and effect’

Explanation
When children try to add a further point to an argument they often get confused between two key language functions:
• ‘addition’ - adding a further related point (also, in addition to, furthermore, moreover…);
• ‘cause and effect’ - explaining the effect of the previous point (therefore, consequently, as a result of, because of this…).
This can result in children making points that are nonsensical:

Mobile phones make children safer because they can contact their parents in the event of an emergency. Consequently, children can contact online safety websites and get useful advice about online bullying.

Here we see that a misunderstanding of the adverb ‘consequently’ has weakened the argument. An ‘addition’ adverb such as ‘furthermore’ would make a lot more sense.

The same problem can occur in reverse.

Text messaging during lessons is a distraction. In addition to this, children secretly sending text messages will fall behind their classmates.

In this passage, the second point is a consequence of the first and not an additional argument. A cause and effect adverb such as ‘therefore’ would make much more sense.

Use the activity "Addition or cause and effect?" to help children understand how to develop a point without confusing the reader.