What is a Relative Subordinate Clause? Subordinate clauses that begin with relative pronouns work like adjectives. They describe a noun or pronoun in the independent clause. Subordinate clauses that begin with relative pronouns are called relative clauses. They describe a noun or pronoun. Relative clauses typically come directly after the noun or pronoun that they follow. That is why a relative clause can never begin a sentence.

What is a Relative Subordinate Clause? The relative pronouns are: who, whom, whose, which, that (Sometimes “when,” “where,” and “since” can also be used.) These words start a subordinate clause called a relative clause. They are often in the middle or end of a sentence. – Ex. who walked down the street subordinate clause (The man who walked down the street was tall.) – Ex. that I am know from class subordinate clause (The boy that I am know from class won the award.)

What is a Relative Subordinate Clause? Some of the relative pronouns that start relative clauses can also be used to begin questions. How can you tell the difference? If the clause is a question, the pronoun will typically be at the beginning of the sentence. If it is starting a relative clause, it can not be placed there. If the clause is a question, there will be a question mark at the end of the sentence. If it is starting a relative clause, it most likely will not. If the pronoun is used to begin a relative clause, there will have to be an independent clause in the sentence also. Ex. Who will attend the party? (At the beginning, question mark, one clause…….QUESTION!) Ex. The people who will attend the party are my friends. (Not at the beginning, no question mark, more than one clause………RELATIVE CLAUSE!)

Finding Relative Subordinate Clauses In each sentence, locate the subordinate clause that begins with a relative pronoun. 1. The boy, whose puppy is missing, is sad. whose puppy is missing 2. I love the book that I am reading. that I am reading 3. The man to whom the letter is addressed is here. to whom the letter is addressed 4. Disney World, where I love to go, is amazing! where I love to go