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: 'Please take out the garbage before you leave.'

Back

Please take out the garbage.

Front

Identify the independent clause in the sentence: 'Let's wait here until Stephen comes home.'

Back

Let's wait here.

Front

Identify the dependent clause in the sentence: 'Ethan and Grace are ready to leave as soon as the bus gets here.'

Back

as soon as the bus gets here.

Front

What is the function of an independent clause in a sentence?

Back

An independent clause serves as the main part of a sentence, providing the primary action or idea.

Front

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

Back

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

Front

Identify the clause type: 'Two other people waited in the office.'

Back

Independent.

Front

Identify the clause type: 'I just can't decide.'

Back

Independent.

Front

Identify the clause type: 'Although it was raining, we went for a walk.'

Back

Dependent (the clause 'Although it was raining' is dependent).