Dependent and Independent Clauses

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. It can stand alone as a sentence.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought. It cannot stand alone as a sentence.

Front

Identify the clause: 'Although she was tired.'

Back

Dependent Clause

Front

Identify the clause: 'She enjoys reading books.'

Back

Independent Clause

Front

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

Back

A dependent clause provides additional information to the independent clause, often indicating time, reason, condition, or contrast.

Front

Example of a sentence with both an independent and dependent clause:

Back

'Although it was raining, we went for a walk.' (Dependent: 'Although it was raining', Independent: 'we went for a walk.')

Front

What conjunctions often introduce dependent clauses?

Back

Common conjunctions include 'although', 'because', 'if', 'when', 'since', and 'unless'.

Front

Identify the dependent clause: 'If you finish your homework.'

Back

Dependent Clause

Front

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

Back

Independent Clause

Front

What is a complex sentence?

Back

A complex sentence is a sentence that contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.