Subordinating Conjunction - Introduction

Subordinating Conjunction

Introduction

What are subordinating conjunctions?

• Subordinating conjunctions are words or phrases that link a dependent clause to an independent clause.

• Some examples of subordinating conjunctions are: After, Although, As, When, Where, While, Until, Before, Because, If, and Since.

What are independent clauses?

• Independent clauses are simple sentences.

• They express ONE complete thought.

• They make sense.

• They can stand alone.

• Example: We played football yesterday.

Multiple Choice

Identify the independent clause in the following complex sentence:

When I went to the public library, I checked out a wonderful book.

• When I went to the public library.

• I checked out a wonderful book.

Multiple Choice

Identify the independent clause in the following complex sentence:

Since I finished reading my book, I returned it to the library.

• Since I finished reading my book.

• I returned it to the library.

What are dependent clauses?

• Dependent clauses are sentence fragments.

• They do not make sense on their own.

• They cannot stand alone.

• They start with a subordinating conjunction.

• Example: After the game.

Multiple Choice

Identify the dependent clause in the following complex sentence:

Since I finished reading my book, I returned it to the library.

• Since I finished reading my book.

• I returned it to the library.

Multiple Choice

Identify the dependent clause in the following complex sentence:

When I went to the public library, I checked out a wonderful book.

• I checked out a wonderful book.

• When I went to the public library.

Rules to follow with complex sentences:

• Rule #1: If a sentence begins with a subordinating conjunction, you will need a comma after the dependent clause.

• Example: If you do well on your test, you will have free time.

Multiple Choice

Which complex sentence is written correctly?

• Since, I love to bake I am always making delicious treats.

• Since I love to bake, I am always making delicious treats!

Multiple Choice

Which complex sentence is written correctly?

• While I was doing my homework, my mom was making dinner.

• While I was doing my homework my mom was making dinner.

Rules to follow with complex sentences:

• Rule #2: If the subordinating conjunction is in the middle of the sentence, you do not need a comma.

• Example: You will have free time if you do well on your test.

Multiple Choice

Which complex sentence is written correctly?

• She does not let me play, if I do not finish my homework on time.

• She does not let me play if I do not finish my homework on time.

Multiple Choice

Which complex sentence is written correctly?

• My mom allows me to play video games, after I finish my homework.

• My mom allows me to play video games after I finish my homework.