CAUSAL ESSAY SAMPLES
Sample prompt: To what extent did the American Revolution fundamentally change American
society? In your answer, be sure to address the political, social, and economic effects of the
Revolution in the period from 1775 to 1800.
Sample Thesis: The American Revolution inspired a desire for liberty and unity throughout American
society, as revealed in the political, social, and economic effects of the Revolution. [universal ideas in
bold]
Sample Topic Sentence: Because the American Revolution prompted American society to seek liberty
and unity, the political ramifications included Americans denouncing British tyranny, Native American
nations seeking peace with the United States, and Americans creating a government that honored
individual liberties.
Sample prompt: Choose a medical condition that affects many groups of people each year. Show
either what causes this medical condition or what effects this medical condition produces.
Sample Thesis: Depression, caused by environmental, genetic, and chemical factors, can be a
debilitating condition that suffocates a person’s healthy outlook on life. [universal idea in bold]
Sample Topic Sentence: Environmental factors, such as abuse, personal problems, and serious illness
can trigger an episode of depression in a typically happy person’s life.