Sentences, Phrases, and Clauses

What is a Sentence? A sentence is a group of words with a subject and predicate. The subject of the sentence usually tells what the sentence is about. The predicate of a sentence tells about the subject or tells what the subject is doing. A sentence begins with a capitalized word, and it can end with a period, question mark, or exclamation point. Good sentences convey a complete thought.

Examples of Complete Sentences The large, red dog ran quickly down the path. SAT scores can be improved through study and practice. Real fans like the Chicago Blackhawks.

What is a Phrase? A phrase is a part of a sentence which does not contain its own subject and predicate.

Examples of Phrases After school Before the boys’ basketball game While it was raining Inside my car Down the hall In the principal’s office

What is a Clause? A clause is a group of words that includes a subject and a predicate. Subject - The noun, noun phrase, or pronoun in a sentence or clause that denotes who does the action or what is described by the predicate. Predicate - A part of a sentence modifying the subject, including the verb, objects, or phrases governed by the verb.

Examples of a Clause The family stood in front of the helicopter. The father taught piano to his daughter.

What is an Independent (Main) Clause? An independent clause is a clause that can STAND ALONE as a sentence. It does NOT need to be attached to another clause.

Examples of an Independent Clause The boy played baseball all day. The cat chased the mouse around the house. I went to karate practice after school.

What is a Dependent (Subordinate) Clause? A dependent clause is a clause that does not complete a thought, and must be accompanied by an independent clause.

Examples of a Dependent Clause After class was over, I bounced the ball in the cafeteria. The baby was crying because he was hungry.

Quick Quiz. Independent Clause Quick Quiz! Independent Clause? Write your answers on a separate sheet of paper. 1. We went to the mall last week. 2. Because of your bad haircut. 3. After the fish jumped out of the bowl. 4. I can’t believe our friends did that! 5. You need to leave. 6. When we left the restaurant.

Let’s Check Our Answers! We went to the mall last week. Independent Clause Because of your bad haircut. Dependent Clause After the fish jumped out of the bowl. I can’t believe our friends did that! Independent Clause You need to leave. When we left the restaurant. Dependent Clause