identify subordinating conjuctions

key notes:

Definition:

Subordinating conjunctions connect a dependent clause to an independent clause, creating complex sentences. They show the relationship between the two clauses.

Common Subordinating Conjunctions:

• Time: after, before, when, while, as soon as
• Cause and Effect: because, since, so that
• Condition: if, unless, provided that
• Contrast: although, though, even though, whereas

Dependent vs. Independent Clauses:

• Independent Clause: A complete thought that can stand alone (e.g., “I went to the park.”)
• Dependent Clause: Cannot stand alone and provides additional information (e.g., “because it was sunny.”)

Identifying Subordinating Conjunctions:

Look for words that introduce dependent clauses and connect them to independent clauses.

Examples:

• “I will go to the party if I finish my homework.”
• “She smiled because she was happy.”

Common Mistakes:

Remind students not to confuse subordinating conjunctions with coordinating conjunctions (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so), which connect equal parts of a sentence.

let’s practice!