Conjunctions (when, if, because, although): ring-tailed lemur
The Grammar Bit!
Read the 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?
The lemurs eat the cicadas because they are a valuable source of protein to them.
The lemurs eat the cicadas. They are a valuable source of protein to them.
Scintillating Sentences
1) The cicadas squirted out honeydew when they fed on the tree sap.
2) Although the giant wasp hid the paralysed cicadas, the ring-tailed lemur was able to find them.
3) If the giant wasps didn’t sting the cicadas, the ring-tailed lemurs would struggle to catch them.
Did you know?
Ring-tailed lemurs mark their territory with scent. During battles, males try to win by ‘outstinking’ each other!