Key Points:
* Dependent Clause: A clause that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It relies on an independent clause for its meaning.
* Modification: The modifier adds detail or explanation to the word or phrase it modifies.
* Types of Clause Modifiers: There are two main types:
* Adjective Clauses: Modify nouns or pronouns, often starting with words like "who," "which," "that," or "whose."
* Adverb Clauses: Modify verbs, adjectives, or adverbs, often starting with words like "because," "although," "when," "since," "if," "before," etc.
Examples:
Adjective Clause:
* The book *that I bought yesterday* is about history. (The adjective clause modifies the noun "book")
Adverb Clause:
* *Because I was late,* I missed the beginning of the movie. (The adverb clause modifies the verb "missed")
How to Identify a Clause Modifier:
1. Look for a dependent clause: Does it contain a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone?
2. Find the word or phrase it modifies: What word or phrase is the dependent clause providing information about?
Important Note: Clause modifiers can be placed in different positions within a sentence, such as at the beginning, in the middle, or at the end.