Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) Practice Test

What distinguishes a dependent clause?

1. It can stand alone as a sentence

2. It contains a subject and expresses a complete thought

3. It lacks a complete thought and is unable to stand alone

4. It is always part of a compound sentence

The correct answer is: It lacks a complete thought and is unable to stand alone

A dependent clause is characterized by its inability to function independently as a complete sentence. This is due to the fact that it does not express a complete thought and often begins with a subordinating conjunction (such as because, although, or if) that ties it to an independent clause. For example, in the sentence "Although it was raining, we went for a walk," the dependent clause "Although it was raining" cannot stand alone—it leaves the reader waiting for more information. Therefore, understanding that a dependent clause lacks a complete thought is essential for recognizing how it fits within larger sentences and how it operates syntactically in relation to independent clauses. This concept is crucial for mastering syntax and sentence structure, as distinguishing between dependent and independent clauses is foundational for effective writing and comprehension.