This graphic organizer can be used to have students research a topic showing both sides of an argument with the student writing their own opinion/conclusion after getting information on both sides.  This can be done in a relatively short amount of time using a quick Google Search and writing out key topics, or as a large project.  

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1D9PfvgpBOibdnfzoFF9rwnfvqkKf11l3uOFBOL8fI-Y/edit?usp=sharing 

This graphic organizer allows students (and/or teachers) with an opportunity to really consider the various acts that led up to a particular event.  On the flip side, scholars can look at the event and determine what the impact / effects of the event were. 

A great example would be to look at a riot.  Riots typically don't happen for an isolated act, they are a result of many acts that culminated in the riot.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jW35wvyinvwLF2SON4GLCqdtoJ8xy8cQbALz4uv3rZk/edit?usp=sharing