Independent and Dependent Clauses

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

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

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

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

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What does the acronym FANBOYS represent?

Back

FANBOYS is an acronym that helps remember the coordinating conjunctions: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So.

Front

Provide an example of an independent clause.

Back

"I enjoy reading books." This is an independent clause because it expresses a complete thought.

Front

Provide an example of a dependent clause.

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"Although I enjoy reading books" is a dependent clause because it does not express a complete thought.

Front

What is the function of coordinating conjunctions?

Back

Coordinating conjunctions connect words, phrases, or independent clauses of equal importance.

Front

Fill in the blank: A _________ clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.

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dependent clause

Front

Fill in the blank: A _________ clause can stand alone as a complete sentence.

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independent clause

Front

What is the purpose of a subordinating conjunction?

Back

A subordinating conjunction introduces a dependent clause and indicates the relationship between the dependent clause and the independent clause.

Front

List three examples of subordinating conjunctions.

Back

Examples include: because, although, and since.