Study Guides

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 use a comma to demarcate a main clause from a non-finite clause in a non-finite complex sentence.

Key Notes

• A non-finite clause joined to a main clause forms a non-finite complex sentence.
• The non-finite clause denotes ongoing action that relates to the subject of the main clause.
• The action of the non-finite clause occurs simultaneously to the action of the main clause.
• The non-finite clause can come first in the complex sentence followed by the main clause or vice versa.
• A comma is always used to demarcate the non-finite clause from the main clause despite its position in the sentence.

Vocabulary To Learn

• non-finite clause: a type of subordinate clause that can start with a verb in the progressive tense
• progressive tense: a tense that denotes ongoing action
• comma: a punctuation mark used to demarcate the non-finite clause from the main clause in a non-finite complex sentence
• main clause: a group of words that contains a verb and makes complete sense
• non-finite complex sentence: a sentence formed of a main clause and a non-finite subordinate clause

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Pupils may not include the subject of the non-finite clause at the start of the main clause.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

More Lessons In This Unit

• A new sentence structure: the non-finite complex sentence Study Guide
• A new subordinate clause: the non-finite (-ing) clause Study Guide
• Comma rules in four sentence types Study Guide
• Four sentence types Study Guide
• Two types of clause Study Guide