Clause: group of words that contains a

subject and a verb.

EXAMPLE:

Some students work in the homeless shelter

because they care about helping others.

This sentence has two clauses, each with a

subject and a verb.
• Independent Clause: expresses a complete
thought and can stand alone as a sentence.

EXAMPLE

Some students work in the homeless shelter.

This clause can stand alone in a simple

sentence, so it is independent!
Simple Sentence: contains one
independent clause and no dependent
clauses.

EXAMPLES

Shawn tutors.

Benita teaches young children acrobatics

Compound Sentence: contains two or more
independent clauses and no dependent
clauses.

EXAMPLES

Shawn tutors, and he helps students learn

math.

Some children have no toys; volunteers can

 PUNCTUATION
The only two ways to join independent clauses to form a
compound sentence are the following:

Use a semicolon:
The Giver is a popular novel; I can’t wait to read it.

Use a comma and conjunction:

The Giver is a popular novel, and I can’t wait to read it.

Coordinate Conjunctions:
FANBOYS (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so)
 What’s Wrong?
1. I will either buy a Honda Civic or I will buy a
Toyota Corolla.
2. We got to the concert early; so we got really
good seats.
3. Malls are a great way to shop, I find
everything I need under one roof.
 What’s Wrong?
1. I will either buy a Honda Civic, or I will buy a
Toyota Corolla.
2. We got to the concert early; so we got really
good seats.
3. Malls are a great way to shop, I find
everything I need under one roof.
Copy and punctuate the following compound sentences:

1. Mark was always late for period 1 it made his

teacher furious.
2. I want to play in Friday’s game but I am failing
two classes.
3. The are many movies made about World War
II Saving Private Ryan is the best.

HW1: Write a compound sentence for every

conjunction in the FANBOYS acronym.
Common mistake: don’t mistake a simple sentence with a
compound predicate for a compound sentence. No
punctuation should separate the parts of a compound
predicate.

EXAMPLE

WRONG: The Newcomers’ Club wrote a clever script, and

then filmed it.

CORRECT: The Newcomers’ Club wrote a clever script and

then filmed it.
 Punctuation? Add if necessary
1. Greg shoveled the snow and his brother began a snow
sculpture.
2. The boat nosed up to the dock our trip was finally over.
3. Tom and Gail quickly cut and stacked the firewood.
4. Several people listened but nobody volunteered.
5. Sheila calls it a dragonfly I call it a darning needle.
6. Did you and Lee walk or ride to your dance class?
7. Gina and Dave picked the wildflowers and we arranged
them.
8. The clown made a face the child burst into laughter.
 Punctuation? Add if necessary
1. Greg shoveled the snow, and his brother began a snow
sculpture.
2. The boat nosed up to the dock; our trip was finally over.
3. Tom and Gail quickly cut and stacked the firewood.
4. Several people listened, but nobody volunteered.
5. Sheila calls it a dragonfly; I call it a darning needle.
6. Did you and Lee walk or ride to your dance class?
7. Gina and Dave picked the wildflowers, and we arranged
them.
8. The clown made a face; the child burst into laughter.
 Punctuation? Add if necessary.
9. Her mother went to the trade show but Doreen stayed
home.
10. Wang and his brother looked at the problem and spotted
the solution.
11. Mrs. Ballak may be in court or she may be in her office.
12. Snow fell winter was now upon us.
13. Kathy phoned this morning but our phone was out of
order.
14. The radio crackled with static and then went out.
15. We could play a video game or we could go to Jim’s house.
16. Lou has been baking bread and Connie is making a big
salad.
 Punctuation? Add if necessary.
9. Her mother went to the trade show, but Doreen stayed
home.
10. Wang and his brother looked at the problem and spotted
the solution.
11. Mrs. Ballak may be in court, or she may be in her office.
12. Snow fell; winter was now upon us.
13. Kathy phoned this morning, but our phone was out of
order.
14. The radio crackled with static and then went out.
15. We could play a video game, or we could go to Jim’s
house.
16. Lou has been baking bread, and Connie is making a big
salad.
 Skills Check: Write 3 sentences and
punctuate. Identify type: S or CD
1. Robins either find worms in the grass or the birds
dig for them underground.

2. I love the fall weather the cooler air is refreshing.

3. I left my book bag on the field after practice and

found it in the same spot the day after.
 Homework 2:
1. Write four simple sentence that includes each of
the following conjunctions: and, but

Ex: I tried out for the basketball team but didn’t

make it.

Homework 3:
2. Write 2 compound sentences.
3. Write 2 simple sentences with compound
predicates.
 HW4: Simple or compound sentences?
1. I would go with you but I am tired and just want to go to
bed._____
2. He listened in class but he didn't take part in class
discussions. _____
3. My mom sets the alarm and wakes me in the morning.
_____
4. My family owned a farm and they used to raise
livestock._____
5. The horse trotted and soon broke into a gallop. _____
6. A beard covered his face and his eyes were bloodshot.
_____
7. I caught a tiny trout and we had it for supper. _____
8. She didn't like me she even said so. _____
 HW 4:Simple or compound sentences?
1. I would go with you but I am tired and just want to go to
bed. compound
2. He listened in class but he didn't take part in class
discussions. compound
3. My mom sets the alarm and wakes me in the morning.
simple
4. My family owned a farm and they used to raise livestock.
compound
5. The horse trotted and soon broke into a gallop. simple
6. A beard covered his face and his eyes were bloodshot.
simple
7. I caught a tiny trout and we had it for supper. compound
8. She didn't like me she even said so. compound
 HW 4:Simple or compound sentences?
9. The band played all night long and the crowd cheered even
longer._____
10. The wolf pack stalked and killed an injured elk._____
11. My dad drives me to school and he also picks me up at
three. _____
12.The moon was full last night and there were many stars out
too. _____
13. Mexico is a great place to vacation and I can’t wait to go
there. _____
14. Mexico is a great place to snorkel and see Mayan ruins.
_____
15. I ate a huge piece of pie and drank a tall glass of milk too.
_____
 HW4: Simple or compound sentences?
9. The band played all night long and the crowd cheered even
longer. compound
10.The wolf pack stalked and killed an injured elk. simple
11. My dad drives me to school and he also picks me up at
three. compound
12. The moon was full last night and there were many stars
out too. compound
13. Mexico is a great place to vacation and I can’t wait to go
there. compound
14. Mexico is a great place to snorkel and see Mayan ruins.
simple
15. I ate a huge piece of pie and drank a tall glass of milk too.
simple
 Clause or not a clause?
• I fell asleep early
• Wandered through the woods aimlessly
• My aunt from Texas loves Philly cheesesteaks
• Enjoys a long, hot soak in the tub
• Maybe I will see you over the weekend
• Played games and ate lots of pizza
• The bird on my lawn is looking for worms.
• Fell down an entire flight of stairs.
• The guitar had a strange sound.
 Clause or not a clause?
• The window was cracked by a stray baseball.
Clause
• Searched for any survivors of the wreck.
Not a clause
• Came out of nowhere.
Not a clause.
Returned home after a horrible night.
Not a clause
• Three young men were observed trying to break into cars.
Clause
• Sounded like a dying animal in the woods.
Not a clause
• Never returned from her Alaskan adventure.
Not a clause
• The captain refused to turn the ship around in the storm.
 Simple or Compound?
• I fell asleep early but woke up at 3:00 a.m.
Simple
• The deer wandered through the woods and the hunter followed her.
Compound (add a comma)
• My aunt from Texas loves Philly cheesesteaks and she also enjoys
soft pretzels.
Compound (add a comma)
• My mom gets tired from work and often enjoys a long, hot soak in
the tub at night.
Simple
• Maybe I will see you over the weekend and we can hang out.
Compound (add a comma)
• My friends and I played games and ate lots of pizza
Simple
 Simple or Compound?
• The bird on my lawn is looking for worms but can’t find any.
Simple
• The window was cracked by a stray baseball and Dad is really angry.
Compound (add a comma)
• The rescue team searched for any survivors of the wreck and sadly
found none.
Simple
• Her anger came out of nowhere and I didn’t know what to say.
Compound (add a comma)
• The tired family returned home after a horrible night so they could get
some sleep.
Compound (add a comma)
• Three young men were observed trying to break into cars and ran after
hearing the sirens.
 Simple or Compound?
• The young woman set off on her own and never returned from her
Alaskan adventure.
Simple
• The captain refused to turn the ship around in the storm and his crew
revolted.
Compound (add a comma)
• My little sister tripped and fell down an entire flight of stairs.
Simple
• Three men were observed trying to break into cars but were caught by
the police shortly after.
Simple
• The guitar had a strange sound yet I was very fond of it.
Compound (add a comma)
• We returned home after a horrible night and immediately went to bed.
Simple
Dependent Clause: does not express a complete
thought and cannot stand alone in a sentence.
(also known as subordinate clause)

EXAMPLE

…because they care about helping people.

A dependent clause must be joined to an

independent clause or it is a fragment.
 Dependent clause starts with a
subordinate conjunction.

Subordinate: lower in rank or position.

Therefore, they cannot stand alone! They are

subordinate to independent clauses like a…
• Employee to his boss
• Child to his parent
• Soldier to his commander
Subordinate Conjunctions (copy in writing section)

after still so that wherever

before even if than while
once even though that
although if unless
as if only until
as if in order to when
as long as now that whenever
as though rather than where
because since whereas
 Independent or Dependent?

1. Although it was raining, Maria went for a jog at the park.

2. Brianna eats chocolate whenever she gets a poor grade in
math.
3. After the flood waters retreated, the family moved into a
temporary shelter.
4. While walking in the woods, John saw a raccoon eating
potato chips.
5. Students who play an instrument do better on math tests.
6. When you finish your homework, please take the dog for a
walk.
7. After Juan completed the assignment, he swam laps at the
gym.
8. Before he completed the assignment, Evan decided to eat a
quick lunch.
 Independent or Dependent?

1. Although it was raining, Maria went for a jog at the park. D

2. Brianna eats chocolate whenever she gets a poor grade in
math. D
3. After the flood waters retreated, the family moved into a
temporary shelter. D
4. While walking in the woods, John saw a raccoon eating
potato chips. I
5. Students who play an instrument do better on math tests. I
6. When you finish your homework, please take the dog for a
walk. D
7. After Juan completed the assignment, he swam laps at the
gym. D
8. Before he completed the assignment, Evan decided to eat a
quick lunch. D
 Independent or Dependent?

1. Juan continued playing although he injured his knee.

2. I thought that the offer was too good to be true.
3. While I was scrubbing the floors, Juliet was watching
television.
4. Although she was tired and grumpy, Laura agreed to babysit
for her sister-in-law.
5. My friend has been visiting since the winter break started.
6. As she was driving home from spring break, Maria saw a
tornado touch down.
7. People who drink and drive should be arrested.
8. Ever since my daughter purchased a ferret, I have noticed an
unpleasant smell in the house.
9. If I cannot make it to the dance, I will give away my tickets.
 Independent or Dependent?

1. Juan continued playing although he injured his knee. I

2. I thought that the offer was too good to be true. I
3. While I was scrubbing the floors, Juliet was watching
television. D
4. Although she was tired and grumpy, Laura agreed to babysit
for her sister-in-law. D
5. My friend has been visiting since the winter break started. I
6. As she was driving home from spring break, Maria saw a
tornado touch down. D
7. People who drink and drive should be arrested. I
8. Ever since my daughter purchased a ferret, I have noticed an
unpleasant smell in the house. D
9. If I cannot make it to the dance, I will give away my tickets. I
Complex Sentences: contains one independent
clause and one or more dependent clauses.

EXAMPLES (dependent clause in bold)

When we visited, Mrs. Brodsky shared her

memories of working in a shipyard during
World War II.

Mr. Ruiz was a photographer until he was

drafted.
Punctuating complex sentences:

If the dependent clause begins a sentence, it

must be followed by a comma.

Examples:

While I was eating, the cat scratched at the

door.
If the independent clause starts the
sentences, no comma is required.

Examples:

The cat scratched at the door while I was

eating.

You ought to see a doctor if you are ill.

 Comma or No Comma?
1. Whenever I’m late for the bus my mom drives me to school.
2. My mom drives me to school whenever I’m late for the bus.
3. I had to stay at a neighbor’s house after school because I
lost my key.
4. Because I lost my key I had to stay at a neighbor’s house
after school.
5. When I forgot to do my chores my mom grounded me for
the day.
6. My mom grounded me for the day when I forgot to do my
chores.
7. Because her friends were all on vacation Mary was lonely all
summer break.
8. Before I could go to the party my mom made me walk the
dog.
 Comma or No Comma?
1. Whenever I’m late for the bus, my mom drives me to school.
2. My mom drives me to school whenever I’m late for the bus.
3. I had to stay at a neighbor’s house after school because I lost
my key.
4. Because I lost my key, I had to stay at a neighbor’s house after
school.
5. When I forgot to do my chores, my mom grounded me for the
day.
6. My mom grounded me for the day when I forgot to do my
chores.
7. Because her friends were all on vacation, Mary was lonely all
summer break.
8. Before I could go to the party, my mom made me walk the dog.
 More Practice: Comma or No Comma?
1. Although she was popular Laurie couldn’t get a date for the prom.
2. We went to hang out at Dairy Queen after school since the game
was cancelled.
3. Unless you hear otherwise I’ll be in my classroom all afternoon.
4. We celebrated at the Wagon Wheel after we won the game.
5. The dancer injured her foot while she was rehearsing for the recital.
6. As the sun rose my friend and I were up and ready for our run.
7. Because Sarah is my sister I have to forgive her for ruining my
favorite shirt.
8. I am going to Hershey Park this weekend if the weather is good.
 Comma or No Comma?

1. Although she was popular, Laurie couldn’t get a date for the prom.
2. We went to hang out at Dairy Queen after school since the game
was cancelled.
3. Unless you hear otherwise, I’ll be in my classroom all afternoon.
4. We celebrated at the Wagon Wheel after we won the game.
5. The dancer injured her foot while she was rehearsing for the recital.
6. As the sun rose, my friend and I were up and ready for our run.
7. Because Sarah is my sister, I have to forgive her for ruining my
favorite shirt.
8. I am going to Hershey Park this weekend if the weather is good.
 Compound or complex?
1.
Punctuate!
Older television sets had tubes while the new models are
digital.
2. Older television sets had tubes the newest models are
digital.
3. After the tornado hit my house was completely destroyed.
4. The tornado hit my house and it was completely destroyed.
5. The clouds promise rain we should hurry up and get home.
6. The clouds promise rain so we should hurry up and get
home.
7. Bruno likes sitting on the beach he always gets a nasty
sunburn.
8. Bruno likes sitting on the beach although he always gets a
nasty sunburn.
 Compound or complex?
1.
Punctuate!
Older television sets had tubes while the new models are
digital.
2. Older television sets had tubes; the newest models are
digital.
3. After the tornado hit, my house was completely destroyed.
4. The tornado hit my house, and it was completely destroyed.
5. The clouds promise rain; we should hurry up and get home.
6. The clouds promise rain, so we should hurry up and get
home.
7. Bruno likes sitting on the beach; he always gets a nasty
sunburn.
8. Bruno likes sitting on the beach although he always gets a
nasty sunburn.
 Homework 5

Pick five subordinating conjunctions out of the first column in

your list and write a complex sentence for each. The
independent clause must go first!

Ex: My game really improved after I bought my new sneakers.

 Homework 6
• Pick five subordinating conjunctions out of the
second column in your list and write a
complex sentence for each. The dependent
clause must go first!

Ex: After I bought my new sneakers, my game

really improved.
 Copy sentences. Underline dependent clause and add
punctuation if needed.
1. Although they eat me out of house and home I will
love my children.
2. I won’t buy new clothes unless they are on sale.
3. While we watched the basketball game on television
my friend and I ate up all of the snacks in the house.
4. I ran out of water and was very thirsty as we hiked
through the dense forest.
5. My mom will not drive me to the mall unless I help
her with the laundry.
6. I don’t like to be alone while I’m watching a scary
movie.
 Underline dependent clause and add punctuation if
needed.
1. Although they eat me out of house and home , I will
love my children.
2. I won’t buy new clothes unless they are on sale.
3. While we watched the basketball game on television,
my friend and I ate up all of the snacks in the house.
4. I ran out of water and was very thirsty as we hiked
through the dense forest.
5. My mom will not drive me to the mall unless I help
her with the laundry.
6. I don’t like to be alone while I’m watching a scary
movie.
Copy sentences. Underline dependent clause and add
punctuation if needed.
1. Stephen won’t do his homework unless his mom
makes him
2. If I don’t finish this project tonight I’ll just do it
over the weekend.
3. After Jack had fallen Jill came tumbling after.
4. As we hiked through the woods I was bitten up by
mosquitoes.
5. My dog will roll over and play dead if I offer him a
treat.
6. Unless the team works harder we will not make it
to the playoffs.
Underline dependent clause and add punctuation if
needed.
1. Stephen won’t do his homework unless his mom
makes him.
2. If I don’t finish this project tonight, I’ll just do it
over the weekend.
3. After Jack had fallen, Jill came tumbling after.
4. As we hiked through the woods, I was bitten up by
mosquitoes.
5. My dog will roll over and play dead if I offer him a
treat.
6. Unless the team works harder, we will not make it
to the playoffs.
HW7: Underline dependent clause and add punctuation if needed.

1. Although it has been celebrated for more than ten years National
Youth Service Day is not well-known.
2. This national event was founded so that young people’s volunteer
work would be recognized.
3. After the volunteers work on a project they have a deep sense of
satisfaction.
4. Because they wanted to help beautify the city some volunteers in
Atlanta, Georgia, painted a playground.
5. While adult volunteers helped most of the work was done by
elementary-school and middle-school students.
6. Since they were interested in identifying major problems in their
neighborhood about 90 high school students in San Francisco
conducted a community survey.
7. Perhaps you can get involved next year if you are interest in
HW 7: Underline dependent clause and add punctuation if needed.

1. Although it has been celebrated for more than ten years, National
Youth Service Day is not well-known.
2. This national event was founded so that young people’s volunteer
work would be recognized.
3. After the volunteers work on a project, they have a deep sense of
satisfaction.
4. Because they wanted to help beautify the city , some volunteers in
Atlanta, Georgia, painted a playground.
5. While adult volunteers helped, most of the work was done by
elementary-school and middle-school students.
6. Since they were interested in identifying major problems in their
neighborhood, about 90 high school students in San Francisco
conducted a community survey.
7. Perhaps you can get involved next year if you are interest in
 HW 8: Complex Sentences
Punctuate the following sentences correctly:

1. I would have gone with you although I am tired.

2. Although I am tired, I would have gone with you.
3. Since our team lost last night, we can’t enter the tournament.
4. We can’t enter the tournament since our team lost last night.
5. He listened in class although he didn’t take part in class discussions.
6. Although he didn’t take part in class discussions, he listened in
class.
7. We were raising livestock because my family was living in the the
country.
8. Because my family was living in the country, we were raising
livestock.
9. The horse trotted until he broke into a gallop.
 Complex Sentences Cont.
11. Even though he was a strange character, I liked being around him.
12. I liked being around him even though he was a strange character.
13. After I caught a tiny trout in the stream, we had it for supper.
14. I cannot buy a car until I have saved a down payment since my credit
is bad.
15. I will help you since no one else seems to be willing to help.
16. She plans to read three books while she is on vacation.
17. Please shut the door since it is cold and rainy outside because of El
Nino.
18. Because of El Nino, it is cold and rainy outside.
19. While the strong wind was blowing, our boat nearly capsized on the
lake.
20. Once you have mastered clauses, the rest of the study of grammar is
 Skills check: Identify clauses, sentence types,
and punctuate if needed.
Samples:
I D

My Halloween costume is ruined because my brother spilled juice all

over it. CX
I I

My favorite candy is Nerds ; I hope I get some this Halloween. CD

1. We need to go to the mall to get our Halloween decorations there is

a sale at Spencer’s. ____
2. We need to go to the mall today to get our Halloween decorations
because Spencer’s is having a sale. ____
3. While I like Halloween I don’t appreciate my mom stealing all of my
 More Quiz Prep: S, CD, or CX
1. I wanted to watch the season premiere of The Walking Dead but I
fell asleep too early. _____
2. My grandmother makes the best meatballs and always makes
extra for me to take home. _____
3. While a storm raged on outside I enjoyed a warm fire and a good
book. _____
4. The young boy listened attentively as his mother yelled for a solid
five minutes. _____
5. After his friend moved away Fred moped around the house. ____
6. My family gets together every Sunday and we always love to play
board games._____
7. The hungry cat stalked a small field mouse and made a quick
meal of him._____
8. Whenever the cafeteria serves tacos there are lines out the
 Quiz Prep: S, CD, or CX
1. I wanted to watch the season premiere of The Walking Dead, but
I fell asleep too early. CD
2. My grandmother makes the best meatballs and always makes
extra for me to take home. S
3. While a storm raged on outside, I enjoyed a warm fire and a good
book. CX
4. The young boy listened attentively as his mother yelled for a solid
five minutes. CX
5. After his friend moved away, Fred moped around the house. CX
6. My family gets together every Sunday, and we always love to play
board games. CD
7. The hungry cat stalked a small field mouse and made a quick
meal of him. S
8. Whenever the cafeteria serves tacos, there are lines out the
 Skills Check Review

1. I did not do well on my quiz because I did not study for it. _____

2. I realize I need to learn from my mistakes and I need to change my

study habits. _____

3. Mrs. Fava is a wonderful and patient teacher. _____

4. So that I do better on the next quiz I will memorize the

subordinating conjunctions._____

5. Until I bring my English grade up Mom has grounded me._____

 Skills Check Review

1. I did not do well on my quiz because I did not study for it. _____

2. I realize I need to learn from my mistakes and I need to change my

study habits. _____

3. Mrs. Fava is a wonderful and patient teacher. _____

4. So that I do better on the next quiz I will memorize the

subordinating conjunctions._____

5. Until I bring my English grade up Mom has grounded me._____

More practice: underline clauses, identify ,
and punctuate.
1. We had a great Winter Break it was really fun.
______
2. Because it was so long we were able to do many
fun things. _____
3. I went to the movies and slept in. _____
4. I went to the movies and I slept in. _____
5. I was going to babysit since I needed the money
_____
6. I was going to babysit but I didn’t have the time.
_____
More practice: underline clauses, identify ,
and punctuate.
1. We had a great Winter Break; it was really fun.
CD
2. Because it was so long, we were able to do
many fun things. CX
3. I went to the movies and slept in. S
4. I went to the movies, and I slept in. CD
5. I was going to babysit since I needed the money.
CX
6. I was going to babysit, but I didn’t have the
time. CD
More practice: underline clauses, identify ,
and punctuate.
1. I went to the doctor’s office because I was feeling
really sick. _____
2. I wasn’t sure when class would be over. _____
3. I love being on break you have so much free time.
_____
4. I love being on break because you have so much free
time. _____
5. If it snows tomorrow we may have a snow day!
_____
6. We have a snow day today since it snowed last
More practice: underline clauses, identify ,
and punctuate.
1. I went to the doctor’s office because I was feeling
really sick. CX
2. I wasn’t sure when class would be over. CX
3. I love being on break; you have so much free time.
CD
4. I love being on break because you have so much
free time. CX
5. If it snows tomorrow, we may have a snow day! CX
6. We have a snow day today since it snowed last
night. CX
More practice: underline clauses, identify ,
and punctuate.
1. I love the sights and smells of Fall. _____
2. I enjoy the changing of the leaves and the smell of
pumpkin spice. _____
3. My dad loves to carve pumpkins his masterpieces sit
out on our front porch. _____
4. After I go out for Halloween I have to hide my candy
from my mom. _____
5. Mom is on a diet but she really loves her candy!
_____
6. My grandmother has been making my Halloween
More practice: underline clauses, identify ,
and punctuate.
1. I love the sights and smells of Fall. S
2. I enjoy the changing of the leaves, and the smell of
pumpkin spice. CD
3. My dad loves to carve pumpkins his masterpieces;
sit out on our front porch. CD
4. After I go out for Halloween, I have to hide my candy
from my mom. CX
5. Mom is on a diet, but she really loves her candy! CD
6. My grandmother has been making my Halloween
costumes since I was little. CX
More practice: underline clauses, identify ,
and punctuate.
1. My soccer team started off the season well with three
wins and zero losses. _____
2. Since our best player was injured we have lost the last
two games. _____
3. My coach is very frustrated with us and yells all the
time. _____
4. He even threw orange slices at me after we lost the last
game. _____
5. I was hoping our best player would come back but he is
sadly out for the season. _____
6. When this season is over I may switch to football._____
More practice: underline clauses, identify ,
and punctuate.
1. My soccer team started off the season well with
three wins and zero losses. S
2. Since our best player was injured, we have lost the
last two games. CX
3. My coach is very frustrated with us and yells all the
time. S
4. He even threw orange slices at me after we lost the
last game. CX
5. I was hoping our best player would come back, but
he is sadly out for the season. CD
6. When this season is over, I may switch to football. CX
 Honors:
Compound-Complex Sentence: contains two or
more independent clauses and one or more
dependent clauses.

EXAMPLES: dependent clause (red)

independent clauses (green)

When our school celebrates Earth Day, we

sign up for environmental projects, and we try
to complete them all in one day.
Combine the following sentences to form a
complex compound sentence:
Use while and and; put dependent clause first.
• Most young people in the middle ages worked.
• Today’s young people go to school.
• They work after graduation.

While most young people in the middle ages

worked, today’s young people go to school, and
they work after graduation.
 HW1
Write 2 compound complex sentences in your
notebook:
• Put dependent clause first in each.
• Underline the dependent clause in red.
• Underline the independent clause in green.
• Apply appropriate punctuation!
Combine the following sentences to form a
complex compound sentence:
Use since and but: put dependent clause first:

• Annie was home from college for Thanksgiving.

• I decided to visit her.
• She was sick with the flu.

Since Annie was home from college for

Thanksgiving, I decided to visit her, but she was
sick with the flu.
 HW2
Write 2 compound complex sentences in your
notebook:
• Put dependent clause first in each.
• Underline the dependent clause in red.
• Underline the independent clause in green.
• Apply appropriate punctuation!
Combine the following sentences to form a
complex compound sentence:
Use and and so that; put both independent
clauses first:

• Students have cleaned up the beaches.

• They have planted flowers in the parks.
• The shore looks inviting to visitors.

Students have cleaned up the beaches, and they have

planted flowers in the parks so that the shore looks
inviting to visitors.
 HW3
Write 2 compound complex sentences in your
notebook:
• Put both independent clauses first in each.
• Underline the dependent clause in red.
• Underline the independent clause in green.
• Apply appropriate punctuation!
Combine the following sentences to form a
complex compound sentence:
Use but and after; put one independent clause
first.

• He ate lunch at the Cheesecake Factory.

• Stanley wanted to go to the gym.
• He was too full from his meal.

Stanley wanted to go to the gym after he ate lunch at the

Cheesecake factory, but he was too full from his meal.
 HW4
Write 2 compound complex sentences in your
notebook:
• Put one independent clause first in each.
• Underline the dependent clause in red.
• Underline the independent clause in green.
• Apply appropriate punctuation!
 HW 5: Mixed Review
Write 5 sentences with correct punctuation and
clauses underlined (I) and (D):
• A simple sentence
• A simple sentence with a compound predicate
• A compound sentence
• A complex sentence
• A compound-complex sentence
 HW5
1.We can wait here until Carlo calls us.

2.Either the engine starts or we will remain here all

night.

3.A group of my classmates studied the problem and

solved it in a few minutes.

4.The old car was in fairly good operating condition

but the condition of the body was poor.
 HW5
1.We can wait here until Carlo calls us. CX

2.Either the engine starts, or we will remain here all

night. CD

3.A group of my classmates studied the problem and

solved it in a few minutes. S

4.The old car was in fairly good operating condition,

but the condition of the body was poor. CD
 HW5
5. As cold weather approaches, you must protect your water
pipes against freezing or they can rupture and cause
significant damage to your home.
6. Russia has a variety of natural resources including oil, natural
gas, timber, iron ore, copper, and lead.
7. While the weather forecast had predicted severe
thunderstorms the dark, heavy thunderclouds never
materialized.
8. Annual plants survive only one season and must be replaced
each year perennials return each year with new flowers and
 HW5
5. As cold weather approaches, you must protect your water
pipes against freezing, or they can rupture and cause
significant damage to your home. CD-CX
6. Russia has a variety of natural resources including oil, natural
gas, timber, iron ore, copper, and lead. S
7. While the weather forecast had predicted severe
thunderstorms, the dark, heavy thunderclouds never
materialized. CX
8. Annual plants survive only one season and must be replaced
each year; perennials return each year with new flowers and
 Honors: Essential Clauses
Essential (Restrictive) clauses: provides necessary
information about the noun in the sentence. It is not
separated from the rest of the sentence by commas.

Examples:
• The student who sits in the back of the room is always
absent.
• The results that I obtained from the experiment were
surprising.
• The student whose essay I just read aloud is always setting
a good example.
 Non-essential Clauses
Non-essential (non-restrictive) clauses: adds
additional information to a sentence. It uses
commas to show that the information is additional.
If omitted, readers will still understand the overall
meaning of the sentence.

Examples:
• I want to thank my father, Mark Smith, for all of
his love and support.
• Simon Baxter, who is a deep-sea fisherman, is
training to be a lion tamer.
 Practice: E or N
A. The Statue of Liberty which is situated on Liberty Island was
given to us by the French.
B. The Statue of Liberty, which is situated on Liberty Island, was
given to us by the French.

B. The Statue of Liberty, which is situated on Liberty Island, was

given to us by the French. N

NEXT
C. People who have a "sweet tooth" consume a lot of sugar.
D. People, who have a "sweet tooth," consume a lot of sugar.
 Practice: E or N
A. Candy that contains chocolate is dangerous to dogs.
B. Candy, that contains chocolate, is dangerous to dogs.

A. Candy that contains chocolate is dangerous to dogs. E

NEXT
C. Cindy who happens to be my favorite cousin is a
wonderful writer.
D. Cindy, who happens to be my favorite cousin, is a
wonderful writer.
B. Cindy, who happens to be my favorite cousin, is a
wonderful writer. N
 Practice: E or N
A. The vegetables that people leave uneaten are often the most
nutritious.
B. The vegetables, that people leave uneaten, are often the most
nutritious.

A. The vegetables that people leave uneaten are often the most
nutritious. E

NEXT
C. Broccoli which people often leave uneaten is very nutritious.
D. Broccoli, which people often leave uneaten, is very nutritious.
 E or N
A. Lisa who takes ballet with Jan is my best friend.
B. Lisa, who takes ballet with Jan, is my best friend.

B. Lisa, who takes ballet with Jan, is my best friend.N

NEXT
C. I want the dress that is purple with black sequins for junior prom.
D. I want the dress, that is purple with black sequins, for junior
prom.

A. I want the dress that is purple with black sequins for junior prom.
E
 E or N
A. The train that comes at ten is often late.
B. The train, that comes at ten, is often late.

C. The train that comes at ten is often late. E

NEXT
D. My English teacher who has a college degree cannot
count papers.
E. My English teacher, who has a college degree, cannot
count papers.
B. My English teacher, who has a college degree, cannot
 E or N
A. Jack’s Bakery which sells the best muffins was robbed last
night.
B. Jack’s Bakery, which sells the best muffins, was robbed last
night.

B. Jack’s Bakery, which sells the best muffins, was robbed last night.
N

NEXT
C. The man who left his wallet is coming back for it at noon.
D. The man, who left his wallet, is coming back for it at noon.
 N or E (practice skills check)
1. I want the dog that is black and white.
2. The school library which is next to the cafeteria
is my favorite place in the school!
3. Mary whose mom is a nurse sits behind me in
class.
4. Could you bring me the cup that is on the
table?
5. The time when I go to bed changes in the
summer.
6. I won first prize which was a blue ribbon.
 N or E
1. I want the dog that is black and white. E
2. he school library, which is next to the cafeteria,
is my favorite place in the school! N
3. Mary, whose mom is a nurse, sits behind me in
class. N
4. Could you bring me the cup that is on the
table? E
5. The time when I go to bed changes in the
summer. E
6. I won first prize, which was a blue ribbon. N
Phrase: does not contain a subject or
predicate.

EXAMPLES (prepositional phrase in

bold)

Spiders live in many different habitats.

The deer fled into the woods.
A phrase is a collection of words that may have nouns or
verbs, but it does not have a subject doing a verb.

EXAMPLES:
Leaving behind the dog, I fled from the
haunted house.
Before the test, I sharpened my pencil.
With a positive attitude, you can do
anything.
Working all night long, I finally finished my
English project.
 Look at the difference
Phrase Clause
Leaving behind the dog I left the dog behind. (IC)

Before the first test Before I took the test… (DC)

With a positive attitude A positive attitude helps you

to accomplish anything. (IC)

Working all night long After I worked all night long…

(DC)
 Whiparound: D, I, or P?
Whenever I eat dinner at Aunt Sarah’s house, I
have to worry about her dog stealing my food.

Eating dinner at Aunt Sarah’s house, I have to

worry about her dog stealing my food.

Whenever I eat dinner at Aunt Sarah’s house, I

have to worry about her dog stealing my food.
 Whiparound: D, I, or P?
Before the game on Saturday, I pulled a
hamstring.

I pulled a hamstring before the game on

Saturday.

I pulled a hamstring before I could play in the

game on Saturday.
 Whiparound: D, I, or P?
The market was closed because it was a holiday.

The market was closed because of the holiday.

Because of the holiday, the market was closed.

 Whiparound: D, I, or P?
Before the detective arrived at the crime scene,
he contacted the forensics team to meet him.

Before arriving at the crime scene, the detective

contacted the forensics team to meet him.

Before the detective arrived at the crime scene,

he contacted the forensics team to meet him.
 Whiparound: D, I, or P?
Too frightening for young audience members,
the circus clown was fired.

The circus clown was fired because he was too

frightening for young audience members.

Too frightening for young audience members,

the circle clown was fired.
 Choose two from each column to write four
sentences.
Intro phrases
1. After three long years, . . .
2. Any given Sunday, . . .
3. Over the river and
through the woods, . . .
4. While riding a bike, . . .
5. Trying to make the
team, . . .
6. After waiting for two
hours,….
Dependent clauses
1. After I practiced the violin, . . .
2. If Andrew works really
hard, . . .
3. When Sarah goes to the
beach, . . .
4. Even though Mr. Smith is
usually nice, . . .
5. As the batter stepped up to the
plate, . . .
6. Because my grandmother lives
in Alaska,….
 I, D, or P (HW 4)

1. The hot dog vendor witnessed the car

accident that happened early that
morning._____
2.When the hot dog vendor saw the car
accident, he called the police.______
3.Witnessing the car accident, the hot dog
vendor immediately called the police._____
 HW4: I, D, or P

4. Born in Texas, I moved to Aston when I was

eleven._____
5. Born in Texas, I moved to Aston when I was
eleven._____
6. Born in Texas, I moved to Aston when I was
eleven._____
•
 HW4: I, D, or P

7.I felt frightened when I heard a strange noise

outside my room last night._____
8. When I heard a strange noise outside my
room last night, I felt frightened._____
9. Hearing a strange noise outside my room last
night, I felt frightened._____
•
 HW4: I, D, or P

10. I panicked when I lost my two friends at the

carnival over the weekend._____
11. I panicked when I lost my two friends at the
carnival over the weekend._____
12. Having lost my two friends, I panicked at the
carnival over the weekend._____
•
 HW 4: I, D, or P

13. Never one to dwell on the negative, Sam quickly

forgot about the team loss._____
14. Since he was never one to dwell on the negative,
Sam quickly forgot about the team loss._____
15. Sam quickly forgot about the team loss since he
was never one to dwell on the negative._____
•
 HW 4: I, D, or P

16.My mom worried when I missed my school

bus and didn’t come home._____
17.When I missed my school bus and didn’t
come home, my mom worried._____
18. Missing the school bus, I worried my
mom._____
•
 HW4: I, D, or P

19.Because I am failing English, I am grounded

until the marking period ends._____
20. I am grounded until the marking period
ends because I am failing English._____
21. Failing English, I am grounded until the
marking period ends._____
 HW5: I, D, or P

1. Tigers, suffering from habitat loss, are one of

the world’s endangered species._____
2.Tigers, since they suffer from habitat loss, are
one of the world’s endangered species._____
3.Tigers, one of the world’s endangered species,
suffer from habitat loss._____
 HW5: I, D, or P
4. After you taste my Aunt Rita’s homemade banana cream
pie, you won’t ever want store-made pie again._____
5. You won’t ever want store-made pie again after you taste
my Aunt Rita’s homemade banana cream pie._____
6. After tasting my Aunt Rita’s homemade banana cream
pie, you won’t ever want store-made pie again._____
 HW 5: I, D, or P

7.The president got angry with the student council

when no one would help with the fundraiser._____
8.When no one would help with the fundraiser, the
president of the student council got angry._____
9.Getting no help with the fundraiser, the president
of the student council got angry._____
 HW5: I, D, or P

10. Although she is my beloved bird, I sometimes

get angry with my noisy bird in the morning._____
11. I sometimes get angry with my noisy bird in
the morning although she is my beloved pet._____
12. Although my beloved pet, I sometimes get
angry with my noisy bird in the morning._____
 HW5: I, D, or P

13. While you were absent, I gathered all of the

work you missed._____
14. I gathered all of the work you missed while
you were absent._____
15. During your absence, I gathered all of the
work you missed._____
 HW5: I, D, or P

16. I have run two miles every day since the

summer began._____
17. Since the summer began, I have run two miles
every day._____
18. Since the summer’s beginning, I have run two
miles every day._____
 HW6: I, D, or P

1. Having never been on a plane, I was very nervous on

the flight to Disney World._____
2. I was very nervous on the flight to Disney World,
having never been on a plane._____
3. Since I had never been on a plane before, I was very
nervous about the flight to Disney World._____
 HW6: I, D, or P

4. Because she loved animals, Sarah volunteered to work at

the Humane Society on Saturday morning._____
5. On Saturday mornings, Sarah volunteered to work at the
Humane Society since she was such an animal lover._____
6. Sarah, a lover of animals, decided to volunteer at the
Human Society on Saturday mornings._____
 HW6: I, D, or P

7. Mr. Wilson, a dedicated teacher, spent most of

his evenings grading papers._____
8. Mr. Wilson, a dedicated teacher, spent most of
his evenings grading papers._____
9. Mr. Wilson spent most of his evenings grading
papers because he was a dedicated teacher._____
 HW6: I, D, or P

10.As a huge chocolate lover, I don’t know what

I’d do if I was allergic to chocolate._____
11. I, a huge chocolate lover, don’t know what I’d

do if I was allergic to chocolate._____

12. As a huge chocolate lover, I don’t know what
I’d do if I was allergic to chocolate._____
 HW6: I, D, or P

13. The lioness, an expert at stalking her prey,

stayed downwind of the herd.______
14. Since she was an expert at stalking her prey,
the lioness stayed downwind of the herd._____
15. An expert at stalking her prey, the lioness
stayed downwind of the herd._____
 HW6: I, D, or P

16.When I train for a race, I try to eat very well

and get plenty of sleep.______
17. I try to eat very well and get plenty of sleep
when I train for a race._____
18. When training for a race, I try to eat very well
and get plenty of sleep._____
 HW7: I, D, or P
1. Not wanting to watch her little brother, Stacy said that she had to study for
her chemistry test. P
2. My mom, although she is usually patient, flipped out at my little brother
today. D
3. Over the weekend, I had a huge fight with my friends and we aren’t speaking
now.P
4. I cannot see my boyfriend tonight since he has to work at the WaWa until
ten.D
5. Running late in the morning, I missed the bus and Mom had to drive me to
school.P
6. Joe, having forgotten to save his work, lost all his research paper when his
computer crashed. P
 HW7: I, D, or P
8. John’s painting, an ugly mess, was clearly the worst entry in the art show. I
9. When we win the championship this weekend, my team is going to celebrate
at Dairy Queen.D
10. After running around the house, the dog finally settled down for a nap by
the fence.P
11. Mr. and Mrs. Simpson, my friend’s parents, sat in back of us at the football
game. P
12. On the way to school, I found a wallet that someone had dropped in the
street. P
13. The teacher, having issued the detention, waited for her student to show
up the next day. I
14. Dauphin Island, located off the coast of Alabama, is a favorite spot for
 HW7: I, D, or P

15. I don’t like watching television during the day because it makes me feel
lazy.D
16. Maria, wearing a hand-made dress of her own design, was the most
stunning girl at the prom. P
17. While I do like baseball, I rarely have time to go to a game. D
18. The cat that was watching the dog intently walked carefully away. P
19. Citizen Kane, considered by many critics to be the greatest American film
ever made, won only one Academy Award. P
20. Joanne was rude to Mr. Simon even though he was just trying to help. D
 HW7: I, D, or P

21. Having worked hard on the paper, Jordan was disappointed to

received a low B. I
22. The ballerina moved on stage with grace even though her feet hurt
horribly. D
23. When in the company of strangers, be careful what you say. P
24. My favorite store at the mall, the one with all of the great posters,
just closed last weekend. I
25. If you can’t say something nice, you shouldn’t say anything at all!
D
 Clause Review Games
Rags to Riches:
http://www.quia.com/rr/744958.html

Clause Quiz: http://

www.softschools.com/quizzes/grammar/identifying_subor
dinate_dependent_clauses/quiz3637.html

Clause and Phrase Race:

http://
www.harcourtschool.com/activity/sentence_speedway/in
dex_pre.html

Clauses and Phrases: