Dependent & Independent Clauses

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What is an independent clause?

Back

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

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What is a dependent clause?

Back

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

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Example of an independent clause.

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"She enjoys reading books." This clause can stand alone as a complete sentence.

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Example of a dependent clause.

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"Although she enjoys reading books," this clause cannot stand alone and needs an independent clause to complete its meaning.

Front

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

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A dependent clause adds additional information to the independent clause, often providing context or detail.

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Identify the clause: "Because it was raining."

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Dependent clause.

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Identify the clause: "The sun is shining brightly."

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Independent clause.

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What punctuation is often used before a dependent clause when it starts a sentence?

Back

A comma is often used before a dependent clause when it starts a sentence.

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What is a complex sentence?

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

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Identify the type of clause: "When I finish my homework."

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Dependent clause.