Conjunctions (when, if, because, although): painted wolf

2 - The Grammar Bit

The Grammar Bit!

Read the three scintillating sentences opposite. Notice how they have been extended to include more than one clause (or section). Remember – a clause typically contains a subject and a verb.

The words in bold are subordinating conjunctions and we can use them to add extra information to our sentences which make them more interesting.

With a partner, compare these two different ways of writing the same information. Which is more effective? Why?

Although she was quite old, Tait still managed to have another litter of pups.

Tait was quite old. She managed to have another litter of pups.

Scintillating Sentences

1) Tait took her pups back into the safety of the den when the honey badgers appeared.

2) Tait’s youngest daughter barked at the honey badgers because she sensed they would cause trouble.

3) If Tait hadn’t taken her puppies back to their den, the honey badgers may have attacked them.

Did you know?

Painted wolves are very social mammals that live in packs. Collectively, they hunt together, share food and look after new-born pups.