DISTINGUISHING BETWEEN DEPENDENT ADVERB CLAUSES AND INTRODUCTORY PHRASES

CAUTION

Do not confuse introductory phrases and introductory dependent clauses.

An introductory dependent adverb clause has its own subject and verb.

An introductory phrase has neither subject or verb. It begins with a preposition or a participle, and ends with a noun or pronoun.

Examples

Since you have already finished, you may leave early.
dependent adverb clause         independent clause
(Note both clauses have a subject and verb.)

Since the horrible accident on County Road 44, he has not been well.
prepositional phrases
( One independent clause beginning with two phrases)

 

Before going to the lake, please (you) put gas and oil in the car.
prepositional phrases
(One independent clause beginning with two phrases.)

Before you begin that exercise, please (you) read chapter seven in your text.
dependent adverb clause                    independent clause
(Note both clauses have a subject and verb.)

Click here to take your first SELF-TEST.  Here you will have an opportunity to practice punctuating dependent adverb clauses. Remember to look at the top of the self-test screen to see the comments for each answer! When you have finished the self-test, close the self-test  window to return to your lesson.

Online Quiz: Go to the home page to get Quiz7C: Distinguishing Between Dependent Adverb Clauses and Introductory Phrases and complete it now.

Go to the next page now to get directions for the first assignment in this lesson.