Identifying Dependent Clauses

What is a Dependent Clause?

A dependent clause is like a sentence sidekick. It also has a subject (who or what the sentence is about) and a predicate (what the subject is doing), but it can't stand alone. It needs the help of its superhero friend, the independent clause, to make a complete sentence.

Tricky Terms:

1. Subject:

   • Just like in independent clauses, the subject is the star of the show. It's the main character, the one doing the action.

     Example: While I was sleeping, the cat knocked over the vase.

2. Predicate:

   • The predicate tells us what the subject is doing. It's the action, the part that adds more details.

     Example: While I was sleeping, the cat knocked over the vase.

3. Dependent Clause:

   • A dependent clause has a subject and a predicate, just like its superhero friend, but it can't stand alone. It needs the support of an independent clause.

     Example: Because it was raining, we decided to stay indoors.

How to Spot a Dependent Clause:

Let's make it easy to find these sentence sidekicks:

1. Look for Words that Signal Dependence:

   • Dependent clauses often start with words that show they need help. Words like "because," "while," "if," "when," and "although" are the signals.

     Example: After we finished our homework, we went to the movies.

2. Check if it Makes Sense Alone:

   • Unlike independent clauses, dependent clauses are a bit shy. They need their superhero friend to make a complete sentence. If it can't stand alone, you've found a dependent clause!

     Example: Although she studied hard.