What are subordinating conjunctions?

• Subordinating conjunctions are words or phrases that link a dependent clause to an independent clause.

• Some examples of subordinating conjunctions are: After, Although, As, When, Where, While, Until, Before, Because, If, and Since.

What are independent clauses?

• Independent clauses are simple sentences.

• They express ONE complete thought.

• They make sense.

• They can stand alone.

• Example: We played football yesterday.

What are dependent clauses?

• Dependent clauses are sentence fragments.

• They do not make sense on their own.

• They cannot stand alone.

• They start with a subordinating conjunction.

• Example: After the game.

Complex Sentences

• Complex Sentences are formed when you link a dependent clause and an independent clause by using a subordinating conjunction.

• We use the acronym, A.A.A.W.W.W.U.B.B.I.S., to help us remember the most frequently used subordinating conjunctions.

What does the acronym, A.A.A.W.W.W.U.B.B.I.S., stand for?

• After

• Although

• As

• When

• Where

• While

• Until

What does the acronym, A.A.A.W.W.W.U.B.B.I.S., stand for?

• Because

• Before

• If

• Since

Rules to follow with complex sentences:

• Rule #1: If a sentence begins with a subordinating conjunction, you will need a comma after the dependent clause.

• Example: If you do well on your test, you will have free time.

Rules to follow with complex sentences:

• Rule #2: If the subordinating conjunction is in the middle of the sentence, you do not need a comma.

• Example: You will have free time if you do well on your test.