What is a dependent (or subordinate) clause?
A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a grammatical sentence because of an extra element that changes an independent clause into a dependent clause. It must always be connected to an independent clause. For example: • Because I was late Extra element + Independent clause = Dependent clause Because I was late Subject Verb Adjective • When I miss the bus Extra element + Independent clause = Dependent clause When I miss the bus Subject Verb Object The following sentences are examples of dependent clauses connected to independent clauses: • Because I was late, I had to run all the way to school. Dependent clause + Independent clause = Complex Sentence Because I was late I had to run all the way to school. • I must drive to school when I miss the bus. Independent clause + Dependent clause = Complex Sentence I must drive to school when I miss the bus. What is a sentence fragment? A sentence fragment is not syntactically complete. It may express a complete idea, but it does not follow stan
