Here's why:
* Clause: A group of words containing a subject and a verb.
* Dependent Clause: A clause that relies on an independent clause to complete its meaning. It cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.
Examples of Dependent Clauses:
* Because I was tired (This needs an independent clause like "I went to bed early.")
* When the sun sets (This needs an independent clause like "the stars will come out.")
* That I saw yesterday (This needs an independent clause like "was a beautiful bird.")
Key features of Dependent Clauses:
* Subordinating Conjunctions: They often begin with words like "because," "when," "since," "although," "if," "unless," etc.
* Relative Pronouns: They might start with words like "who," "which," "that," "whose," etc.
* Incomplete Meaning: They lack a complete thought and need an independent clause to make sense.
Let me know if you'd like more examples or explanations!