Activity: Dependent and Subordinate Clauses
Objective:
In this activity, you will learn about dependent and subordinate clauses, and how they add more information to an independent clause.
Materials:
- Pen or pencil
- Paper
- Examples of sentences with dependent and subordinate clauses
Instructions:
1. Start by reviewing what independent clauses are- these are full sentences that express a complete thought and can stand alone.
Example: I went to the store.
2. Now, let's learn about dependent clauses. A dependent clause is a group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence and needs an independent clause to complete its meaning.
Example: Although it was raining,
3. Subordinate clauses are a type of dependent clause that start with a conjunction like "because," "if," or "when."
Example: If you study every night,
4. Now, let's practice identifying dependent and subordinate clauses! Look at the examples of sentences and underline the dependent or subordinate clauses.
Example:
The dog barked loudly although no one was around.
Answer: although no one was around
5. Create your own sentence with a dependent clause. Make sure that it cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.
Example: Because he was tired,
6. Create another sentence, but this time, include a subordinate clause. Underline the subordinate clause.
Example: When she finished her homework,
7. Share your sentences with the class and see if you can identify any dependent or subordinate clauses in your classmates' sentences.