Sentence Parts & Types
What is a clause? A group of words that has a subject and verb (predicate) and is used as part of a sentence. Examples: Neither answer is correct Because they are twins Since she is young
Two types of a clause… Independent (IC) Subordinate (SC) AKA Dependent (DC)
What is an independent clause? A group of words that has a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought; it can stand by itself as a sentence. Examples: I woke up this morning. The alarm clock never rang.
What is a subordinate clause? A group of words that has a subject and a verb and doesn’t express a complete thought; it cannot stand by itself as a sentence. Examples After she performed her solo While the band practiced in the garage
What is a complex sentence? A complex sentence has at least one subordinate clause and one independent clause. I will help (IC) + If you need me (SC) = I will help if you need me. (complex sentence with the SC placed at the end of the sentence) OR If you need me, I will help. (complex sentence with the SC placed at the beginning of the sentence)
Remember… If the SC is at the beginning of the sentence, a comma follows it. If the subordinate clause comes at the end of the sentence it often does not require a comma, but a comma is sometimes needed. Also, a subordinate clause can be in the middle of a sentence.