Clauses
Define a clause.
A clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb (predicate).
List the relative pronouns mainly used for people.
who, whom, that
What is a defining relative clause?
A defining relative clause specifies which noun we are talking about and is essential to the sentence.
What is a non-defining relative clause?
A non-defining relative clause adds extra information about a noun, which is not essential to the sentence’s meaning.
In a non-defining relative clause, what punctuation is used to separate the clause from the rest of the sentence?
comma
What is the main difference between an independent and a dependent clause?
An independent clause can stand alone as a sentence, while a dependent clause cannot.
Which relative pronoun is used for things and sometimes animals?
which/that
Create a sentence with a defining relative clause about "the book you read last month."
The book that/which I read last month was thrilling.
Create a sentence with a non-defining relative clause about your best friend."
My best friend, who lives in New York, is visiting me next week.
Name a relative pronoun that cannot be used in non-defining relative clauses.
"That" cannot be used in non-defining relative clauses
Give an example of a sentence with both an independent and dependent clause.
Although it was raining (dependent), we went for a walk (independent).
Provide an example using "whose" for possession.
The man whose car was stolen was devastated.
Explain how defining relative clauses affect the meaning of a sentence.
They provide essential information to identify the subject or object being referred to.
Discuss the importance of commas in non-defining relative clauses.
They are separated by commas to indicate that the information is additional.
Name one of the two countries that do not allow tattoos.
Japan or Iran
Explain the function of a subordinate clause in a sentence.
A subordinate clause provides additional information to the main clause and cannot stand alone.
When can "whom" be correctly used in a sentence?
Whom is used as the object of a verb or preposition.
Tip: A trick to determine whether to use "who" or "whom" is to try to answer the question with "he" or "him." If "he" fits, use "who." If "him" fits, use "whom." (Remember, "him" and "whom" both end with "m.")
Why can't we use commas in defining relative clauses?
Commas are not used because the information is essential to the meaning of the sentence.
Can "that" be used in non-defining relative clauses? Why or why not?
No, "that" cannot be used because it is reserved for defining relative clauses.
Name one of the two countries that allow you to take a nap during work hours?
Italy or Spain
Create a complex sentence with one independent clause and two dependent clauses.
Even though the weather was cold (dependent), we decided to go out (independent), because we had been inside all day (dependent).
Write a sentence using "whom" and "whose" correctly.
The professor, to whom I gave my assignment, is the person whose opinion I value most.
Write a complex sentence that includes a defining relative clause.
The artist who painted this masterpiece spent years perfecting his technique.
Write a complex sentence that includes a non-defining relative clause.
William Shakespeare, who is considered the greatest playwright of all time, wrote numerous plays and sonnets.
Explain the main difference between renewable and non-renewable energy sources, using a defining relative clause in your answer.
Renewable energy sources, which can be replenished naturally over a short period of time, differ from non-renewable energy sources, which are finite and deplete with use.