INDEPENDENT AND DEPENDENT CLAUSES What is a clause

INDEPENDENT AND DEPENDENT CLAUSES

What is a clause? ◦ A group of words containing a subject and a verb or verb phrase. ◦ What is a subject? ◦ What is a verb?

Independent Clauses ◦ Expresses a complete thought. ◦ It can stand as a sentence OR ◦ It can be combined with one or more clauses to form a sentence. ◦ However, even when it is joined with other clauses, it is always capable of standing on its own as a sentence.

Independent Clause Examples ◦ Mom took the car to get fixed. ◦ Gabriel is playing with toys in his room. ◦ I will wait to buy a car until I have saved more money. ◦ When Angela visits, we will surprise her with a birthday party. ◦ Nate will be late for the concert because he can’t get a ride right away. ◦ While Ana hesitated to share her opinion with her manager, she did it anyway. ◦ Even though it rained during our vacation, we still had a good time.

Dependent Clauses ◦ Also known as a subordinate clause. ◦ Does not express a complete thought. ◦ Cannot stand alone as a sentence. ◦ Has to be combined with one or more independent clauses to form a sentence. ◦ Begin with words such as: after, although, because, before, if, since, that, until, what, when, where, who, which, and why.

Dependent Clause Examples ◦ When we get enough snow, we’re going to go sledding. ◦ Damian won’t be able to play in the game because he injured his foot. ◦ Does anyone know what we are having for dinner? ◦ I’m trying to decide which book I want to read next. ◦ I forgot where I put the car keys ◦ If Charlotte decides to join the softball team, then we will have enough members. ◦ I can’t wait until the pizza gets here!