Understanding Subordinate Clauses

Understanding Subordinate Clauses

Read each question carefully and follow the instructions. This worksheet assesses your understanding of subordinate clauses.

A subordinate clause (also known as a dependent clause) is a clause that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence because it does not express a complete thought. It must be attached to an independent clause to make sense. Subordinate clauses often begin with subordinating conjunctions (e.g., although, because, while, since, unless, when, where) or relative pronouns (e.g., who, whom, whose, which, that).

1. In the sentence, 'Although it was raining, we still went for a walk,' which part is the subordinate clause?

Complete the following sentences by adding an appropriate subordinate clause. Remember to use correct punctuation.

2. I couldn't believe my eyes  .

3.  , the students aced the exam.

4. Combine the following two independent clauses into one complex sentence by adding a subordinate clause. Underline the subordinate clause you create.

Independent Clause 1: The concert was amazing.

Independent Clause 2: We bought tickets months ago.

5. A subordinate clause can always stand alone as a complete sentence.

Read the following passage. Underline all the subordinate clauses you can identify.

The old house, which stood on a hill overlooking the sea, had been vacant for years. Although many people claimed it was haunted, a young couple decided to buy it. They planned to renovate the entire structure because they saw its potential. When the first storm hit, they realized how much work truly lay ahead.