In preparation for writing composition, you as a student should be able to distinguish the following from each other: words, phrases, dependent clauses, sentences (independent clauses).
Examples:
Words
Understanding
inability
comprehension
completeness
Phrases
in the middle of the night
working hard to finish the project
landed on Mars
inspite of the differences between the two of them
Dependent Clause
when the scientists found the secret formula
if there are differences between the president and the senate
although the terrorists tried to penetrate the United States
Sentences
The economy of the country has improved.
There are less jobless people today according to statistics.
The US soldiers in Iraq are being attacked by Iraqui rebels.
Exercise 1
Determine whether the following expressions are words, phrases, clauses or sentences. Write W for word, P for phrase, C for clause and S for sentence at the end of the statement.
1. inability to understand the lesson
2. comfortable
3. when people don't have jobs
4. The government has taken measures to stop terrorism.
5. when the building was blown up
6. The prices of commodities have gone up.
7. improving the economy of the United States
8. fighting for the freedom of the country
9. When the killing of US troops continue
10.Orlando Magic has lost so many games in basketball.
11. comprehending
12. considering the economic situation of the country
13. giving food to the poor people of Orlando
14. She is tutoring public school children near her place.
15. Inspite of the difficulties ahead of her
16. Her dedication to the cause is admirable.
17. Finding the true meaning of life
18. a feeling of security in one's place
19. Whenever she's in high spirits
20. Studying and working during the day
Determining the Subject and the Main Verb of the Sentence.
The government has tightened the securities around government buildings.
subject-government
main verb-has tightened
Some parents have complained about the lack of discipline in schools.
subject-parents
main verb- has complained
Many students enroll in college to have a better life in the future.
subject - students
verb - enroll
Exercise 2
Determine the subject and the main verb of the sentence. Underline the subject once and underline the verb twice.
1. I bought the compact disc player from the department store.
2. We offer seminars that are designed to improve performance.
3. The United States sent troops to Iraq to oust Sadam Hussein.
4. Soldiers get killed doing their duties there.
5. I shall consider the offer presented to me.
6. After discussing the alternatives, Alicia chose Gerry's plans.
7. Val recommended Jayne for a promotion.
8. However, written job descriptions are important.
9. You will get paid when you deliver the merchandise.
10. As soon as I learned the results, I called my brother.
11. You should send the bill to Keiko because she issues the checks.
12. I think that this decision is for your best interest.
13. Having had onions for lunch, Mary suffered severe indigestions.
14. NASA has successfully launched a spacecraft to Mars.
15. The President will be running again for re-election next year.
16. Drugs and violence go hand in hand among the youth.
17. Drinking alcohol is a very serious problem in Orlando.
18. Millions of tourists come to Florida to enjoy its sunshine.
19. Mothers should be careful in drinking prescription drugs.
20. Many famous persons like Michael Jackson and Martha Stewart are accused in courts.
