Noun Clauses

Definition  A noun clause is a subordinate (dependent) clause used as a noun.  You can use a noun clause in the same ways that you use a noun – as a subject, direct object, indirect object, predicate noun, or object of a preposition.  In most cases, You could replace the noun clause with “it”, and the sentence would still make sense.

How Noun Clauses Are Used Subject What makes ice hockey exciting is the speed. Direct Object Players know that the game can be dangerous. Object of a Preposition Victory goes to whoever makes more goals. Predicate Noun This rink is where the teams will play.

Words That Introduce Noun Clauses  How, however, that, what, whatever, where, whether, which, whichever, who, whoever, whom, whomever, whose, why, when

Practice  1. That ice hockey began in Canada is not surprising.  2. Where the sport began is not easily verified.  3. Three different cities claim that they hosted the first hockey game.  4. Most people believe that the game was played in Jamaica as early as 1830.

More Practice  5. The fact is that the first recorded game occurred in Montreal around  6. You could argue that Canadians are still among the best hockey players.  7. There have been some changes in how ice hockey is played.  8. Do you know which sport is most dangerous?  9. Some people question whether hockey has to be so dangerous.