Dependent, Independent Clauses

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a 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 sentence. It has a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought.

Front

Example of an independent clause.

Back

"I will have to make dinner." This clause can stand alone as a complete sentence.

Front

Example of a dependent clause.

Back

"Because I practice a lot." This clause cannot stand alone and needs an independent clause to complete its meaning.

Front

What conjunctions typically introduce dependent clauses?

Back

Common conjunctions that introduce dependent clauses include: because, although, since, if, when.

Front

Identify the clause: "If they take me with them."

Back

This is a dependent clause because it cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.

Front

Identify the clause: "She made brownies for our class!"

Back

This is an independent clause because it expresses a complete thought.

Front

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

Back

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

Front

Which of the following makes a clause dependent: Since, Heavy, Although?

Back

Since and Although make a clause dependent; Heavy does not.

Front

What is a simple way to remember the difference between independent and dependent clauses?

Back

Independent clauses can stand alone; dependent clauses cannot.