Highlight All The Words That Make Up The Independent Clause Below.Benji Campbell Ate The Last Two Cookies On The Tray.

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Understanding Independent Clauses

In English grammar, an independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a predicate, expressing a complete thought. It is called "independent" because it can stand alone as a complete sentence. In this article, we will highlight the words that make up the independent clause in the given sentence.

The Given Sentence

"Benji Campbell ate the last two cookies on the tray."

Breaking Down the Sentence

To identify the independent clause, we need to break down the sentence into its individual words.

  • Benji
  • Campbell
  • ate
  • the
  • last
  • two
  • cookies
  • on
  • the
  • tray

Identifying the Independent Clause

An independent clause typically consists of a subject and a predicate. The subject is the noun or pronoun that performs the action, while the predicate is the verb or action that is performed.

In the given sentence, the subject is "Benji Campbell" and the predicate is "ate the last two cookies on the tray." However, "Benji Campbell" is a compound subject, consisting of two nouns "Benji" and "Campbell" joined by a conjunction "and." The predicate "ate the last two cookies on the tray" is a verb phrase that consists of a verb "ate" and several objects "the last two cookies on the tray."

Highlighting the Independent Clause

The independent clause in the given sentence is:

Benji Campbell (subject) ate (predicate) the last two cookies on the tray (object)

The words that make up the independent clause are:

  • Benji
  • Campbell
  • ate
  • the
  • last
  • two
  • cookies
  • on
  • the
  • tray

Conclusion

In conclusion, the independent clause in the given sentence is "Benji Campbell ate the last two cookies on the tray." The words that make up the independent clause are highlighted above. Understanding independent clauses is essential in English grammar, as it helps us to identify and construct complete sentences.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When identifying independent clauses, it's essential to avoid common mistakes such as:

  • Confusing independent clauses with dependent clauses
  • Failing to identify the subject and predicate
  • Ignoring the objects of the verb

By understanding independent clauses and avoiding common mistakes, we can improve our English grammar skills and communicate effectively.

Tips for Identifying Independent Clauses

To identify independent clauses, follow these tips:

  • Look for a subject and a predicate
  • Identify the verb and its objects
  • Check if the clause can stand alone as a complete sentence
  • Avoid confusing independent clauses with dependent clauses

By following these tips, you can improve your ability to identify independent clauses and become a more effective communicator.

Practice Exercises

To practice identifying independent clauses, try the following exercises:

  • Identify the independent clause in the following sentence: "The sun was shining brightly in the clear blue sky."
  • Break down the sentence into its individual words and identify the subject and predicate.
  • Check if the clause can stand alone as a complete sentence.

Q: What is an independent clause?

A: An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a predicate, expressing a complete thought. It is called "independent" because it can stand alone as a complete sentence.

Q: How do I identify an independent clause?

A: To identify an independent clause, look for a subject and a predicate. The subject is the noun or pronoun that performs the action, while the predicate is the verb or action that is performed. Check if the clause can stand alone as a complete sentence.

Q: What is the difference between an independent clause and a dependent clause?

A: A dependent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a predicate, but it cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It relies on an independent clause to complete its meaning. An independent clause, on the other hand, can stand alone as a complete sentence.

Q: Can a dependent clause be part of an independent clause?

A: Yes, a dependent clause can be part of an independent clause. In this case, the dependent clause is called a subordinate clause. It provides additional information to the independent clause, but it cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.

Q: How do I identify the subject and predicate of an independent clause?

A: To identify the subject and predicate of an independent clause, look for the following:

  • The subject is the noun or pronoun that performs the action.
  • The predicate is the verb or action that is performed.
  • The subject and predicate can be separated by a variety of words, including prepositions, conjunctions, and adverbs.

Q: Can an independent clause have more than one subject?

A: Yes, an independent clause can have more than one subject. This is called a compound subject. For example: "Benji and Campbell ate the last two cookies on the tray."

Q: Can an independent clause have more than one predicate?

A: Yes, an independent clause can have more than one predicate. This is called a compound predicate. For example: "Benji ate the last cookie, and Campbell ate the second cookie."

Q: How do I use independent clauses in my writing?

A: To use independent clauses effectively in your writing, follow these tips:

  • Use independent clauses to express complete thoughts.
  • Use dependent clauses to provide additional information.
  • Vary the length and structure of your sentences to create interest and variety.
  • Use independent clauses to create complex sentences by combining them with dependent clauses.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when using independent clauses?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when using independent clauses include:

  • Confusing independent clauses with dependent clauses.
  • Failing to identify the subject and predicate.
  • Ignoring the objects of the verb.
  • Using too many independent clauses in a row, which can make your writing seem choppy or disjointed.

Q: How can I practice identifying independent clauses?

A: To practice identifying independent clauses, try the following exercises:

  • Identify the independent clause in a sentence.
  • Break down the sentence into its individual words and identify the subject and predicate.
  • Check if the clause can stand alone as a complete sentence.
  • Practice combining independent clauses with dependent clauses to create complex sentences.

By following these tips and practicing your skills, you can become more confident in your ability to identify and use independent clauses effectively in your writing.