Identify dependent and independent clauses

Key Notes :

What is a Clause?

A clause is a group of words with a subject and a verb.
Example:

• She runs every morning. 🏃‍♀️
• Because it was raining ☔

Independent Clause (Main Clause)

• Can stand alone as a complete sentence.
• Expresses a complete thought.
• Has a subject + verb.

Examples:

• I enjoy reading books. 📚
• The sun is shining brightly. ☀️
• He plays football every weekend. ⚽

Tip: Ask yourself: “Can this sentence stand alone?” ✅
If yes → Independent Clause

Dependent Clause (Subordinate Clause)

• Cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.
• Does not express a complete thought.
• Often starts with subordinating words like:
  • because, although, if, when, while, since, before, after

Examples:

• Because it was raining 🌧️
• Although she was tired 😴
• If you finish your homework 📖

Tip: Ask yourself: “Does this sentence make sense alone?” ❌
If no → Dependent Clause

Subordinating Words / Clues

• Time: when, before, after, since, until ⏰
• Cause/Effect: because, so that, since 💡
• Contrast: although, though, whereas ⚖️
• Condition: if, unless, provided that ✅

Examples Together

• Independent Clause: I went to the park. 🌳
• Dependent Clause: because I wanted some fresh air. 🍃

Combined Sentence:

• I went to the park 🌳 because I wanted some fresh air. 🍃

Quick Tips

• Independent = can stand alone 🏠
• Dependent = cannot stand alone 🚪
• Dependent clauses often start with special words 🌟

Let’s practice!✒️