What is a Noun Clause?
A noun clause acts like a noun. It can be the subject of a sentence, the object of a verb or preposition, or the complement of a linking verb.
Identifying Noun Clauses:
1. Look for "wh-" words: Words like *who*, *what*, *when*, *where*, *why*, and *how* often introduce noun clauses.
2. Look for "that" or "whether": These words can also introduce noun clauses.
3. Find the function of the clause: Ask yourself what role the clause plays in the sentence. If it acts like a noun, it's likely a noun clause.
Examples:
* Subject: *What she said* surprised everyone. (The clause "what she said" acts as the subject of the verb "surprised.")
* Object: I know *that you are right.* (The clause "that you are right" is the object of the verb "know.")
* Object of a Preposition: I am interested in *how she did it.* (The clause "how she did it" is the object of the preposition "in.")
* Complement: The question is *whether we should go.* (The clause "whether we should go" is the complement of the linking verb "is.")
Tips:
* Subordinating conjunctions: Remember that noun clauses are introduced by subordinating conjunctions (like *that*, *if*, *whether*, *how*, *why*, *where*, *when*, *who*, *what*, etc.).
* Context: Consider the context of the sentence to determine the function of the clause.
* Practice: The best way to identify noun clauses is to practice! Read sentences carefully and look for these key indicators.
Let me know if you'd like to see more examples or have any specific questions about noun clauses!