Clauses,Independent, Dependent , Adjective, Adverb

Mrs. Colley

Independent ClauseIndependent clauses (also called the

main clause).They contain a subject and express a

complete thought.Every sentence has at least ONE

independent clause.They can stand alone.Example: The girl skipped. SubjectVerb

Independent ClauseIndependent clauses DO NOT

start with a relative pronoun or a subordinating conjunction.

Relative pronouns and subordinating conjunctions begin dependent clauses.

Dependent clausesDependent clauses are also called

subordinate clauses and they can’t stand alone.

These are the ones that start with relative pronouns or subordinating conjunctions.

They only make sense when attached to the main clause.

Example: After she presented her paper.While the group studied.SubjectVerb

What are common relative pronouns?Common relative pronouns (they

start dependent clauses adjective or adverb)

ThatWhichWhoWhomWhose

Common subordinating conjunctions?

AfterSureBeforeWhileBecauseAlthoughSoThat

IfWhenWheneverAsEven

thoughUntilUnlessAs if

AlthoughAs ifSinceWhereWheneverWhileThough

How to combine independent clausesWhen combining 2 independent

clauses with a coordinating conjunction a comma is needed before the coordinating conjunction.

Remember FANBOYSFor, and, nor, but, or, yet, so

ExampleJim Studied in the Sweet Shop for

his chemistry quiz, BUT it was hard to concentrate because of the noise.

Adverb Dependent ClausesThese usually start with a subordinating

conjunction (check your list).They act like an adverb.The subordinating conjunction always

introduces the clauseIt will appear in one of two places.It can begin the sentence ORIn the middle – connecting the

independent clause to the subordinating clause.

ExamplesPut the luggage where you find

an empty spot.The game will begin after we sing

the National Anthem.Amy spoke as if she were very

serious.I am tired because I have been

working all day.

Adverb clausesAdverb clauses tell how, when,

where, why, or under what conditions.

They describe the verb.

Adverb clausesYou usually do not use a comma

before an adverb clause.When the adverb clause

introduces the sentence, however, you do use a comma after the adverb clause.

Adjective dependent clauseStarts with a relative pronoun.It is also usually the subject of

the clause.They can also begin with where

or when.They act like an adjective

Adjective clausesstars that are shining bright and

glowingAdjective clause.the country where I was born

Adjective Dependent ClauseThe professor whom I had asked

for help met with me before class.