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Year 5 - English

Two types of clause

Five sentence types

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils learn a new sentence structure: the non-finite complex sentence. In so doing, they learn a new comma rule for how to separate a non-finite clause from a main clause. Pupils revise the other sentence structures they know: simple, compound, adverbial complex and relative complex.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to identify two different types of subordinate clause.

Key Notes

  • 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 that does not make complete sense.
  • There are different types of subordinate clause.
  • Any type of subordinate clause must be joined to a main clause to make sense.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • 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
  • adverbial clause: a type of subordinate clause that starts with a subordinating conjunction
  • relative clause: a type of subordinate clause that starts with a relative pronoun

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Pupils may not understand that relative and adverbial clauses are two types of subordinate clause.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key 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.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'clause'

a group of words that contains a verb.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Pupils may not understand that relative and adverbial clauses are two types of subordinate clause. Correction: Emphasise that relative and adverbial clauses are both subordinate, but they are differentiated by their starting word and use in sentences.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 5 English guide library.