Language
Because and so
Join two ideas with because or so, and say which half is the cause.
Two ideas often belong together: one is the cause, and the other is what came out of it. Because and so both join them — but they put the cause in different places.
because — the reason comes after
Put because in front of the cause. The match was called off because the ground was wet. The wet ground is the reason.
so — the result comes after
Put so in front of the result. The ground was wet, so the match was called off. The same two ideas, the other way round.
How to check yourself
Ask which half is the reason. If the reason comes second, you need because. If the reason comes first, you need so.
Worked example
Join these two ideas: "The shop was shut." and "We went home."
Decide which one is the reason. The shop being shut is why they went home.
Going home did not shut the shop, so only one order makes sense.
Try it together
Let us join one pair of ideas both ways.
The two ideas are: the fan stopped working, and the room grew hot. Each answer is one word.
1.Which of the two ideas is the reason? Write one word: "fan" or "room".
Have a go
The pencil broke ____ she pressed too hard.
Ready to practice?
Eight questions on what you have just read. Nothing is timed, and you can play as many times as you like.