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: 'Although it was raining, we went for a walk.'

Back

We went for a walk.

Front

Identify the Dependent Clause: 'When the sun sets, the sky turns orange.'

Back

When the sun sets.

Front

What is the main difference between Independent and Dependent Clauses?

Back

The main difference is that independent clauses can stand alone as sentences, while dependent clauses cannot.

Front

Example of a Dependent Clause: 'If I finish my homework.'

Back

This clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.

Front

Example of an Independent Clause: 'I love to read books.'

Back

This clause can stand alone as a complete sentence.

Front

What does it mean for a clause to be 'dependent'?

Back

A dependent clause relies on an independent clause to provide a complete thought.

Front

Identify the clause: 'Because I was tired.'

Back

This is a dependent clause.

Front

Identify the clause: 'She enjoys painting.'

Back

This is an independent clause.