Front

What is a clause?

Back

A clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence 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 and does not express a complete thought.

Front

Example of an independent clause.

Back

"The traffic on the freeway was horrible."

Front

Example of a dependent clause.

Back

"While she sleeps at my feet."

Front

What is the main function of an independent clause?

Back

The main function of an independent clause is to convey a complete thought.

Front

What is the main function of a dependent clause?

Back

The main function of a dependent clause is to provide additional information but cannot stand alone.

Front

Identify the clause: "Until we asked a question."

Back

This is a dependent clause.

Front

Identify the clause: "Mariela came over."

Back

This is an independent clause.

Front

What does a dependent clause often begin with?

Back

A dependent clause often begins with a subordinating conjunction (e.g., because, although, until).