Independent vs. Dependent Clauses

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence. It contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause is a group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence. It contains a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought.

Front

Example of an independent clause: 'The dog barked.'

Back

This is an independent clause because it expresses a complete thought and can stand alone.

Front

Example of a dependent clause: 'Because the dog barked.'

Back

This is a dependent clause because it does not express a complete thought and cannot stand alone.

Front

What is a key characteristic of independent clauses?

Back

Independent clauses can function as complete sentences.

Front

What is a key characteristic of dependent clauses?

Back

Dependent clauses often begin with subordinating conjunctions like 'because,' 'although,' or 'when'.

Front

Identify the clause: 'Although it was raining.'

Back

This is a dependent clause because it does not express a complete thought.

Front

Identify the clause: 'She went to the store.'

Back

This is an independent clause because it expresses a complete thought.

Front

What conjunctions typically introduce dependent clauses?

Back

Subordinating conjunctions such as 'because,' 'if,' 'when,' 'although,' and 'since'.

Front

Can a dependent clause be part of a larger sentence?

Back

Yes, a dependent clause can be part of a larger sentence, usually combined with an independent clause.