Independent Clause Examples (with Worksheet Samples in PDF)

We all know that communication is key. Misinterpretation in writing is usually caused by different factors, one of which includes poor sentence structure. To understand how this works, we get acquainted with the different types of clauses. We are going to tackle the likes of an independent clause.

Independent Clause Worksheet Example

Writing Independent Clauses Worksheet Example

Joining Independent Clauses

In most cases, writers add a dependent clause to an independent clause to form a complete thought. By properly combining these clauses together, you can create a different sentence structure that goes beyond the typical. And when we say “typical,” we mean the kind of sentences that fits the 2nd-grade learning standards of grade schoolers.

Apart from grammar, the proper use of punctuation marks is another element to focus on. Joining two or more clauses together can be quite tricky, especially if you are unsure of how to punctuate different sentence formations. This could either change the overall thought of the sentence or make it a lot more difficult for a reader to comprehend.

Example:

The room smelled like coffee because it was early morning. 

The sentence above contains both an independent clause and a dependent clause. If we take away the word because, then it will then form two sentences.

The room smelled like coffee. It was early morning.

We’re now left with two independent (but related) clauses, each creating its own sentences. But since these two thoughts are somewhat related with one another, we can connect the two without altering its clause type.

The room smelled like coffee; it was early morning.

What initially started as a sentence containing an independent clause and a dependent clause has now turned into a sentence with two independent clauses. Here, the use of a semicolon to join clauses, which shall be explained later on, is a simple way to construct a compound sentence.

Using Semicolons

Besides the use of dependent markers or conjunctions, independent clauses may also be combined by a semicolon. However, this may only be applied if the clauses indicated in the sentence consist of related ideas.

Examples:

1. Monica brought the utensils; Chandler brought the soft drinks and beer.
2. My little sister refuses to go to bed early; she’s afraid she’ll miss something important.
3. Jessica is going to her uncle’s cabin; she intends to stay there for the rest of the week.
4. There was a slight rainfall at the beach yesterday; Drew and I managed to have an awesome time anyway.
5. During their hike last weekend, Jack and Ben noticed a storm moving in; they decided to turn back.
6. I was very sad; I watched a chick flick and ate a tub of ice cream.
7. This is one of my favorite movies; The Great Gatsby is another favorite.
8. The lane is narrow; the road is wide.

Independent Clause Worksheet for All Example

Learning Independent Clauses Worksheet Examples

Semicolon and Independent Clause Worksheet Example

What Is an Independent Clause?

An independent clause is a

Examples of Independent Clauses Joined Together

Other than a conjunction and a semicolon, two or more independent clauses may also be combined through the use of a comma.

1. The beach is so much fun to explore, but the mountains are even better.
2. All of us went to see the new movie, and we agreed it was drag.
3. Mom went to grocery store, but she forgot to get bread and butter.
4. Ross and Rachel went to amusement park, but their favorite ride was broken.
5. I really wanted to order a cheesy onion soup, but they only had potato soup and chicken noodle.
6. Today is Tuesday, and my exam is on Friday.
7. She bought two dresses from the store, and she got matching shoes to pair them with.
8. I really want to go to your party, but my parents are having a huge anniversary dinner for the whole family.
9. Julia interviewed for five entirely different jobs, but she really wants to work here.
10. We all looked very worn-out, for we had stayed up all night practicing for tomorrow’s grand performance.

Understanding the different branches of our language is vital in improving the way we interact with one another. This allows us to construct clear sentences and avoid fragments for better communication. Proper sentence construction is highly important not just for formal settings, but for casual conversations as well. This way, we can convey a given message with clarity for an audience to grasp. Sentence variety is also a key factor in writing, as it can help captivate readers to keep them connected to your content.