Hello, scholars! Today, we're diving into the world of dependent clauses. These little gems are crucial for crafting complex, interesting sentences. So, buckle up as we explore them in detail!

1. Understanding Dependent Clauses

a) What's a Dependent Clause?

· Definition: A dependent clause is a group of words with a subject and verb but cannot stand alone as a complete thought. It's like a koala clinging to a tree; it needs something else (an independent clause) to make sense!

· Incorrect Example: "Although she was tired." (It's hanging there, waiting for more!)

· Correct Example: "Although she was tired, she finished her homework." (Now, it's complete with the independent clause added.)

2. The Fabulous Five: Types of Dependent Clauses

a) Introductory Clauses

· These are the clauses that kick off a sentence, setting the stage for the main event (the independent clause).

A. Subordinate Clauses

i. What Are They?

· Definition: Subordinate clauses start with subordinating conjunctions (like 'because', 'since', 'while') and add extra information to the main clause.

· Formula: [Subordinating Conjunction] + [Subject] + [Verb]

ii. Examples

1. "Because the cat napped (dependent), the house was quiet (independent)."

2. "Although he was nervous (dependent), he gave a great speech (independent)."

3. "Since it was raining (dependent), we stayed indoors (independent)."

iii. Common Pitfalls

· Don't forget the comma after a subordinate clause when it starts a sentence.

· Avoid using two subordinate clauses without an independent clause. That's a recipe for confusion!

B. Prepositional Phrases

i. What Are They?

· Definition: These start with a preposition (like 'on', 'in', 'under') and often indicate location or time.

· Formula: [Preposition] + [Object of Preposition]

ii. Examples

1. "In the morning (dependent), the birds sing the loudest (independent)."

2. "During the movie (dependent), they fell asleep (independent)."

3. "Without any hesitation (dependent), she agreed to the plan (independent)."

iii. Common Pitfalls

· Don’t separate a preposition from its object with a comma.

· Ensure the prepositional phrase complements, not confuses, the main clause.

C. Participle Phrases

i. What Are They?

· Definition: These are phrases that start with a participle form of a verb (ending in -ing or -ed) and modify the subject.

· Formula: [Participle] + [Comma] + [Subject] + [Verb]

ii. Examples

1. "Hoping for the best, Jane stepped into the room."

2. "Trained as a chef, he created exquisite dishes."

3. "Tired from the journey, the travelers rested."

iii. Common Pitfalls

· Match the participle phrase closely with the subject it modifies.

· Remember the comma after the participle phrase when it starts a sentence.

3. Relative Clauses

a) What Are They?

· Definition: These clauses provide additional information about a noun using relative pronouns like 'who', 'which', 'that'.

· Examples:

1. "The book that she read was fascinating."

2. "The teacher who teaches math is very kind."

3. "The car which was parked outside was red."

4. Nonessential Clauses and Appositives

a) What Are They?

· Definition: These clauses add extra information about a noun but can be removed without changing the sentence's overall meaning.

· Examples:

1. "My brother, a talented musician, plays the guitar."

2. "Lake Tahoe, a popular vacation spot, is beautiful in winter."

3. "The novel, written by her favorite author, was a thrilling read."

**Alright, that's a wrap for today's session! Remember, understanding and using these clauses can dramatically improve your writing and test scores. Keep practicing, and don't hesitate to ask questions. Happy learning!**

EST RESOURCES:

Click here for EST Grammar Basics

Click here for EST Vocabulary

Click here for EST Reading

Click here for EST Mock Tests

Click here for EST Video Explanation of the Basics

 

Digital SAT Resources for Vocabulary:

Click here for the Vocabulary Course

Click here for DSAT Words in Context Practice

 

ACT Resources:

Real ACT Writing Passages and Explanations Click Here

Real ACT Reading Passage with Explanations Click Here

ACT Grammar Basics Click Here

Real ACT Science Passage with Explanations Click Here

ACT Vocabulary Practice

More Resources

Vocabulary Course for Digital SAT, EST Exam, ACT

Learn English Grammar for EST and ACT Exams

Digital SAT English Course

ACT Math Prep Course

Digital SAT Bluebook Walkthrough Course

Digital SAT Reading and Writing Crash Course

ACT English Practice Test

EST Reading Practice Test