Worked examples
Two examples
Example 1
Independent or dependent? when the store opens
- It has a subject (store) and a verb (opens), so it is a clause.
- Now read it alone, aloud. When leaves you waiting: when the store opens, what happens?
- A clause that cannot stand alone is dependent.
Answer: Dependent
Example 2
Independent or dependent? the store opens at eight
- Subject: store. Verb: opens.
- Nothing at the front makes it lean on another clause. Read alone, it is a complete thought: The store opens at eight.
Answer: Independent
Where this is taught: Sentences: Start Here, Part 2: Clauses and kinds of sentences
More practice: Quiz 31, Clauses · In your Kaplan book: Unit 1, Chapter 4, Lesson 2, “Compound and Complex Sentences”
The drill
Ten questions
How many:
Tap your answer to each one, then press Check my answers at the bottom.Circle your answer to each one. The answer key, with the reasoning, is on the last page.