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

Front

Identify the independent clause in the sentence: 'She enjoys reading books.'

Back

She enjoys reading books.

Front

Identify the dependent clause in the sentence: 'Because it was raining, we stayed inside.'

Back

Because it was raining.

Front

What is the purpose 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: 'When the sun sets.'

Back

Dependent.

Front

Identify the clause type: 'The dog barked loudly.'

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

Identify the independent clause in the sentence: 'I will go to the store if I have time.'

Back

I will go to the store.

Front

Identify the dependent clause in the sentence: 'Although she was tired, she finished her homework.'

Back

Although she was tired.