Chapter 8: Diagramming Subordinating Conjunctions (Adverb Clauses)

Subordinating conjunctions are words that introduce adverb clauses.

although, because, before, if, since, while
Adverb clauses are dependent clauses that act as adverbs. That means the whole clause modifies a verb, adjective, or an adverb.

He whistled while he walked.
While he walked is a dependent adverb clause. It is modifying the verb whistled, and it is being introduced by the subordinating conjunction while.

If you'd like to learn more about these topics before you start diagramming them, check out these pages for more help:

8.0 Diagramming Adverb Clauses

Directions: All of the following sentences contain dependent adverb clauses and subordinating conjunctions.

To diagram each sentence, start by diagramming the independent clause. Then, diagram the dependent adverb clause below it.

Connect the two clauses with a slanted, dotted line.

Put the subordinating conjunction on the dotted line.

All of the adverb clauses in these exercises modify the verbs in the independent clauses. Because of this, the slanted, dotted line should come off of the verb in the independent clause.

Here is an example to get you started.

My mom smiled when I made dinner.

sentence diagram

1. If the weather is nice, I will be happy.

2. Whenever my dog barks, my cat meows.

3. I ran until my legs hurt.

4. I won the race because I practiced.

5. As I walked, the sky became dark.

Check Your Answers

8.0 Diagramming Adverb Clauses

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