CLAUSES

WHAT ARE CLAUSES? Clauses are groups of words that contain a subject and a verb. Sometimes they express a complete thought. These clauses are INDEPENDENT CLAUSES. Sometimes they do NOT express a complete thought. These clauses are DEPENDENT or SUBORDINATE CLAUSES.

Independent Clauses Sometimes called a Main Clause, the independent clause has a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. One independent clause is a simple sentence. Example: Millions of people live in cities.

Subordinate Clauses Sometimes known as dependent clauses, these clauses have a subject and a verb but do NOT express a complete thought. Dependent Clauses are NOT sentences. Ex: John is a man that people can trust.

Adjective Clauses Modify nouns or pronouns in the main clause of the sentence Answer the questions “which one?” and “what kind?” Usually begin with a relative pronoun, such as who, whom, whose, which, or that. Example: She is a person who truly loves bicycling. ( What kind of person?)

Adverb Clauses Modify the verb in a main clause Answers the questions: How?, When?, Where?, Why?, and Under what condition? Usually begin with subordinating conjunctions such as: after, although, as, because, before, if, since, than, though, unless, until, when, whenever, where, whereas, wherever Example: She likes ten speeds because they are versatile.( Likes, why?)

Independent or Subordinate? When the sun set. Most people know that camels are stubborn. He paid a low price. Which he bought on sale. Before automobiles were available. Where you ride is your choice.

Types of Subordinate Clauses Adjective Adverb Noun

Noun Clauses Can be used in the same ways a noun can be used: Subject Direct Object Object of a Preposition Predicate Noun

Examples S-Whoever rides a bike rides for fun or exercise. DO-Suki says that she wants a ten speed. OP-She is interested in looking at whatever is on sale. PN- The flea market is where she can find a good deal.