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

Example of an independent clause.

Back

I love to read books.

Front

Example of a dependent clause.

Back

Although I love to read books.

Front

What is the function of a dependent clause in a sentence?

Back

A dependent clause adds additional information to the independent clause but cannot stand alone.

Front

Identify the clause type: 'Because it was raining.'

Back

Dependent

Front

Identify the clause type: 'She enjoys playing soccer.'

Back

Independent

Front

What is a relative clause?

Back

A relative clause is a type of dependent clause that modifies a noun and usually begins with a relative pronoun like 'who,' 'which,' or 'that.'

Front

Example of a relative clause.

Back

The book that I borrowed is fascinating.

Front

Identify the dependent clause in the sentence: 'I will go to the park if it stops raining.'

Back

if it stops raining.