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Lesson 1 of 4
New
New
- Year 6
Clause structure
I can identify three different types of subordinate clause.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Any clause is a group of words that contains a verb.
- A main clause is a group of words that contains a verb and makes complete sense.
- A subordinate clause is a group of words that contains a verb and does not make complete sense.
- There are three types of subordinate clause: the adverbial clause, the relative clause and the non-finite clause.
- Any type of subordinate clause must be joined to a main clause to make sense.
Keywords
Clause - a group of words that contains a verb
Main clause - a group of words that contains a verb and makes complete sense
Subordinate clause - a group of words that contains a verb and does not make complete sense
Common misconception
Pupils may believe that any group of words that is not a main clause is a subordinate clause.
Emphasise that knowing the difference between clauses (groups of words that contain verbs) and phrases (groups of words that do not) is key.
In modelled and shared writing, constantly reinforce and use these three types of subordinate clause as well as different phrases. Make sure children have access to a resource (like a word bank or display) that gives them examples of each.
Teacher tip
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match each word class to its meaning.
Match each word class to its meaning.
Q2.What are the verbs in this sentence? 'She worked hard, but she found it difficult.'
What are the verbs in this sentence? 'She worked hard, but she found it difficult.'
she
hard
Q3.Which of these groups of words contain a verb?
Which of these groups of words contain a verb?
the long, winding road
the torrential, never-ending rain
Q4.Which of these groups of words do not contain a verb?
Which of these groups of words do not contain a verb?
the smell was unbearable
before we could even stop him
Q5.Which of these groups of words could be complete simple sentences?
Which of these groups of words could be complete simple sentences?
because it was still raining
when she was a fire-fighter
Q6.Which of these groups of words could not be complete simple sentences?
Which of these groups of words could not be complete simple sentences?
the lights went out
should we huddle together for warmth
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the keyword to its meaning.
Match the keyword to its meaning.
Q2.Which of the following are true for a subordinate clause?
Which of the following are true for a subordinate clause?
It could be a sentence on its own.
It makes complete sense.
Q3.Which of the following are types of subordinate clause?
Which of the following are types of subordinate clause?
main clause
phrase
Q4.Which of the following subordinate clauses are non-finite (-ing) clauses?
Which of the following subordinate clauses are non-finite (-ing) clauses?
which was a huge surprise
because the door was stuck shut
Q5.Which of these sentences contain an adverbial clause?
Which of these sentences contain an adverbial clause?
We celebrated wildly, punching the air with joy.
Rushing inside, we sheltered from the torrential rain.
Q6.Match the type of subordinate clause to the example.
Match the type of subordinate clause to the example.
