Mastering Subordinating Conjunctions: A Complete Lesson
Subordinating conjunctions are the secret ingredient that make writing more sophisticated and connected. They link ideas so readers can see how one thought depends on another—showing cause, time, condition, or contrast. Without them, writing can feel flat or disconnected. In this lesson, students will learn how to use subordinating conjunctions to create complex sentences that express relationships between ideas clearly and effectively. Through notes, examples, and practice activities, they’ll see how these small words can make a big difference in the flow and depth of their writing.
Notes on Subordinating Conjunctions
A subordinating conjunction joins an independent clause (complete thought) with a dependent clause (incomplete thought).
Common subordinating conjunctions: after, although, because, before, if, since, unless, until, when, while.
The dependent clause cannot stand alone—it relies on the independent clause.
Subordinating conjunctions show a relationship, such as:
Cause/Effect (because, since, so that)
Time (after, before, until, when, while)
Condition (if, unless)
Contrast (although, though, whereas)
Punctuation Rule:
If the dependent clause comes before the independent clause, use a comma.
Example: Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
If the dependent clause comes after, no comma is usually needed.
Example: We stayed inside because it was raining.
Practice Together
Combine the two sentences using a subordinating conjunction.
We missed the bus. We woke up late.
I’ll bring an umbrella. It might rain later.
She studied hard. She wanted to pass the exam.
We stayed quiet. The baby was sleeping.
I love pizza. I don’t eat it every day.
Answer Key (Practice Together)
We missed the bus because we woke up late.
I’ll bring an umbrella if it might rain later.
She studied hard because she wanted to pass the exam.
We stayed quiet while the baby was sleeping.
I love pizza, although I don’t eat it every day.
Practice Alone
Student Worksheet
Teacher Answer Key
Conclusion
Subordinating conjunctions help writers show how ideas connect and depend on one another, making sentences richer and more meaningful. They allow us to express time, cause, contrast, and condition—all essential relationships in clear writing. Understanding how to use them properly, along with the punctuation that goes with them, helps students create sentences that flow smoothly and convey complex thoughts with precision. With practice, these small words become powerful tools for building strong, nuanced writing.
