Grammar - Clauses

Dependent Versus Independent Clauses

While a phrase is a group of words, a clause is a group of words that contains both a subject and a verb. All clauses are categorized as either dependent clauses or independent clauses. In this interactivity, you will explore the differences between dependent and independent clauses. This information will serve as a foundation as you continue to explore how to combine independent clauses and how different types of dependent clauses function in a sentence. Click the player button to begin.

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Combining Independent Clauses - Compound Sentences

A compound sentence includes at least two independent clauses and no dependent clauses. For example, consider these two independent clauses.

We worked all day on the project.
Only half of it is done.

Because these independent clauses are closely related in subject matter (both discuss a project), they can be combined into a single sentence. There are several options for combining related independent clauses to create a compound sentence.

1. First, you can join independent clauses using a semicolon.

We worked all day on the project; only half of it is done.

2. In addition, you can join independent clauses using a coordinating conjunction preceded by a comma. The seven common coordinating conjunctions are for, and, nor, but, or, yet, and so.

We worked all day on the project, but only half of it is done.

3. Alternatively, you can join independent clauses using a semicolon followed by a transitional phrase or a conjunctive adverb. A conjunctive adverb is a word that serves as a transition between clauses. Here is a list of common conjunctive adverbs.

Most of the time, the conjunctive adverb will be followed by a comma.

We worked all day on the project; however, only half of it is done.

 

Types of Dependent Clauses

Adjective and Adverbial Clauses

Adjective clauses are dependent clauses that function as adjectives in a sentence, modifying nouns or pronouns. Adverbial clauses are dependent clauses that function as adverbs in a sentence, modifying verbs, adjectives, or adverbs. View this video to learn more each of these types of clauses. As you view the video, make sure to try to complete each example along with the narrator. Click the player button to begin.

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Noun Clauses

Noun clauses are dependent clauses that function as nouns in a sentence. While they do not modify other words, they can function as the subject, subject complement (following a link verb), direct object, or object of a preposition. Take a look at these examples of noun clauses.

As a Subject: Whether I bring an umbrella will depend on the weather forecast.
As a Subject Complement: The champion is whoever earns the highest score.
As a Direct Object: I will learn whatever I can.
As an Object of a Preposition: He decided to leave on whichever bus arrives first.

Noun clauses usually begin with one of the following words that introduces the subordinate clause:

 

Clauses Review

Now that you have explored the different types of clauses and how they function in sentences, it is time to review your knowledge and practice what you have learned. In this non-graded activity, read the set of directions associated with each question and provide your answer. Click the player button to get started.