Here's a breakdown:
After "Since":
* Prepositional Phrase: "Since" can introduce a prepositional phrase that tells us when something happened.
* Example: *I haven't seen her since last week. * (The prepositional phrase is "since last week")
* Adverb Clause: "Since" can also introduce a dependent clause, which explains the reason for something.
* Example: *Since you're here, let's get started. * (The clause "since you're here" explains why they're going to start)
After "While":
* Prepositional Phrase: Similar to "since," "while" can introduce a prepositional phrase that tells us when something happened.
* Example: *I studied for the test while I was eating breakfast. * (The prepositional phrase is "while I was eating breakfast")
* Adverb Clause: "While" can also introduce a dependent clause, often indicating a contrast or simultaneity with the main clause.
* Example: *While I was sleeping, my dog was barking at the mailman. * (The clause "while I was sleeping" contrasts with the main clause about the dog)
Key Takeaways:
* "Since" and "while" are often followed by a prepositional phrase, but they can also introduce adverb clauses.
* The specific function of the phrase or clause after "since" and "while" determines its role in the sentence.
Examples to help:
* Prepositional phrase: *I haven't eaten anything since lunchtime. * (The phrase "since lunchtime" functions as a prepositional phrase, telling us when the eating stopped)
* Adverb clause: *Since you're new here, let me show you around. * (The clause "since you're new here" explains why the person is giving a tour)
* Prepositional phrase: *I worked on the project while I was on vacation. * (The phrase "while I was on vacation" functions as a prepositional phrase, telling us when the work was done)
* Adverb clause: *While I was driving, I saw a deer run across the road. * (The clause "while I was driving" indicates simultaneity with the action of seeing the deer)