Identify dependent and independent clauses

Key Notes:

📝 Identify Dependent and Independent Clauses

What is a Clause?

A clause is a group of words that has a subject (who or what) and a predicate (what the subject does).

Example: She runs fast. 🏃‍♀️

• She = subject
• runs fast = predicate

Types of Clauses

🔹 Independent Clause (Main Clause)

Can stand alone as a complete sentence ✅

Expresses a complete thought

Example:

• I like ice cream. 🍦
• He plays football every Sunday. ⚽

Tip: If it makes sense by itself, it’s independent!

🔹 Dependent Clause (Subordinate Clause)

Cannot stand alone ❌

Does not express a complete thought

Usually starts with words like: because, although, if, when, since, while, after

Example:

• Because I was tired… 😴
• Although it was raining… 🌧️

Tip: If it feels incomplete and you’re waiting for more info, it’s dependent!

How to Spot Them

Clause Type	Clue Words	Can it stand alone?	Example
Independent ✅	—	Yes	She danced beautifully. 💃
Dependent ❌	because, although, if, when, since, while	No	When she danced… 🎵

Combining Clauses

Independent + Dependent → Complete sentence ✅

Example:

• I stayed home 🏠 because it was raining. 🌧️
• She smiled 😊 although she was nervous. 😬

Tip: The independent clause can go before or after the dependent clause.

Quick Tricks 💡

• Independent Clause = I can stand alone! 🏆
• Dependent Clause = I need help! 🤝
• Look for clue words: because, although, if, when…

Let’s practice!