Independent and 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 has 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 has a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought.

Front

Identify the independent clause: 'Although it was raining, we went for a walk.'

Back

We went for a walk.

Front

Identify the dependent clause: 'Because I was tired, I went to bed early.'

Back

Because I was tired.

Front

What is a key characteristic of a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause often begins with a subordinating conjunction (e.g., because, although, if) and cannot stand alone.

Front

Which of the following is an independent clause? 'When the sun sets.' or 'The sun sets.'

Back

The sun sets.

Front

What is a subordinating conjunction?

Back

A subordinating conjunction is a word that connects a dependent clause to an independent clause (e.g., although, because, since).

Front

True or False: An independent clause can be part of a larger sentence.

Back

True.

Front

What is the function of an independent clause in a sentence?

Back

It expresses a complete thought and can stand alone as a sentence.

Front

Provide an example of a dependent clause.

Back

Although I enjoy reading.