Grammar: Clauses

 

1.      What is a clause?

A clause is a statement or a question that generally consists of a SUBJECT and a VERB .

e.g: The student studied in the library.

        Jane studies biology

 

2.      There are two types of clauses

i.                    Independent clauses

ii.                  Dependant clauses

3.      What is an independent clause?

An independent clause is a group of words that CAN STAND by itself to make a complete sentence and a complete thought.

 

Example:

The research demonstrates that the new vaccine effectively eliminates viral load in patients. (Complete thought)

 

4.      What is a dependent clause?

A dependent clause is a group of words that CANNOT STAND by itself; it needs an independent clause to make a sentence.

 

Examples:

i.                    While I was studying in the library (incomplete thought)

ii.                  If the teacher does not provide the class notes on time (incomplete thought)

 

5.      What clues do you have to identify dependent clauses?

i.                    Look for punctuation marks such as commas and brackets.

ii.                  Look for certain words to mark dependent clauses: while, if, unless, although, because, since, when.

 

Identify if the following clauses are Independent clauses (I), Dependent clauses (D) or Not clauses (N).

 

    1.  Since I have been in college.

    2. I have learned so much.

    3.  Thank you.

    4. I am late.

    5. I feel sad 

    6. Since you went away,

    7. While you were gone,

    8. Sitting alone

    9. I will call you tomorrow .

    10. If I don’t see you tonight,

    11. Stop!

    12. Because I am late,

    13. George not only finished his paper on time,

    14. Today is Tuesday

    15. meets at nine in the morning

 

Answers:

1.      D

2.      I

3.      N

4.      I

5.      I

6.      D

7.      D

8.      N

9.      I

10.  D

11.  N

12.  D

13.  D

14.   I

15.  N

 

 

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