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Fragments. SAT Prep. But the SAT!. A fragment is an incomplete sentence. Let’s get more technical.
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Fragments SAT Prep
But the SAT! • A fragment is an incomplete sentence.
Let’s get more technical 1. an “independent” clause is a complete idea that can stand on its own as a sentence. A “dependent” clause is an idea that cannot stand on its own, and must be attached to an independent clause to survive. 2. Every independent clause has a subject. It will always be either a: A) NounB) PronounC) Gerund (verbs that become nouns. EX: Running is fun) Every independent clause MUST have a subject– no exceptions. The subject is the focus of the clause, standing in the spotlight of the sentence.
Let’s get more technical 3. Every independent clause has a main verb. This can be either: • Something the subject does (I jump– it’s what “I” the subject, “do” main verb) • A “to be” word that tells what the subject is or is being (I am tired– I am, main verb) Verbs that follow option B will all be forms of the word “to be” such as the words in italics below. She is, she was, she will be, she has been I am, I was, I will be, I have been They are, they were, they will be, they have been
Let’s get more technical 4. Every independent clause expresses a complete idea that can stand on its own. “I am happy.” can stand on its own, but “because I am happy” cannot stand on its own.
That’s It! • Note: There isn’t anything wrong with a dependant clause, which will have a subject and a main verb but can’t quite stand on its own, but without a string independent clause to properly attach to, a dependent clause cannot stand alone and is incorrect. • Dependent clauses are frequently used to add additional details or explanations . • The most important thing to learn, is to differentiate between dependant and independent clauses • The other important thing is to do is get rid of extra details in the sentence that will try to distract you
Let’s try it out! • The brown bear jumped from tree to tree. • But the SAT is fun. • The ACT is boring, but the SAT is fun! • The brown bear, which is known for eating various foods left behind by picnickers, who visit national parks on the weekends.
SAT Sample • The “dessert rally,” an endurance race by dune buggies across hostile terrain, that only the fiercest competition qualify for. • A. that only the fiercest competition qualify for • B. which only the fiercest competitors can qualify for. • C. And only the fiercest competitors can qualify for it. • D. is a contest that only the fiercest competitors can qualify for. • E. is a contest that only can be qualified for by the fiercest competitors.
Quick Reference • Every sentence needs at least one independent clause. • An independent clause needs three things: a subject, a main verb and a complete thought. • Dependant causes have a subject and a verb but not a complete thought; they must attach to independent clauses to survive. • Getting rid of extra details is the number one way to simplify the sentences and expose hidden errors • Eliminating extra details helps with every topic on every question, not just this one.