Independent and Dependent 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: 'I think it might be too hot today to go play.'

Back

Independent Clause

Front

Identify the clause: 'Even though I love playing tennis.'

Back

Dependent Clause

Front

Identify the clause: 'Jake doesn't think there is anything more relaxing than sitting on the beach.'

Back

Independent Clause

Front

Identify the clause: 'Whichever student picked up the trash.'

Back

Dependent Clause

Front

What is a key characteristic of an independent clause?

Back

It can stand alone as a complete sentence.

Front

What is a key characteristic of a dependent clause?

Back

It cannot stand alone and often begins with a subordinating conjunction.

Front

Give an example of a subordinating conjunction.

Back

Examples include 'although', 'because', 'since', 'unless', and 'while'.

Front

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

Back

It provides additional information but cannot convey a complete thought on its own.