Adjective Clause
An adjective clause is a dependent clause that modifies nouns or pronouns, providing additional information.
An adjective clause is a dependent clause that modifies nouns or pronouns, providing additional information.
Example
The house where we were born was demolished last month. (The adjective clause modifies the noun house.)
An adjective clause can begin with words such as that, who, whom, whose, which, when, where, and why.
Example
Children whose parents spend a lot of time with them are bound to be happier.
There are two types of adjective clauses:
- A restrictive (essential) adjective clause provides information that is necessary to distinguish the modified word; thus, it cannot be omitted. These clauses usually begin with that and are not set off with commas.
Example
The English course that Ann takes is aimed at written skills. (There are different types of English courses, but the peculiarity of the course that Ann takes is that it is aimed at written skills.)
- A nonrestrictive (nonessential) adjective clause provides additional information and can be omitted without any loss of meaning. These clauses usually begin with which and are always set off with commas.
Example
Bananas, which I eat daily, are packed with nutrients and vitamins. (Bananas are very healthy. By the way, I eat them every day. This additional information doesn't change the fact that bananas are healthy.)
Guided Practice
An adjective clause is a dependent clause that modifies nouns or pronouns, providing additional information.
Underline adjective clauses.
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I am a big fan of Quentin Tarantino, whose movies are always incredible.
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Jim needed to know how to move forward.
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My grandpa loves telling the story when he joined the Army.
Fill in the gaps with who, that, which.
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Apples, .................... are perfect for pies, are sold at any supermarket.
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Those .................... never gossip behind your back are true friends.
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The book .................... was on the table looked rather old.
Short Story Using Adjective Clauses
– The gym where I spend most of my free time is closing down in 3 weeks. Do you know any other cheap facility like that nearby?
– Gyms, which are almost everywhere nowadays, aren't that expensive. I'd recommend looking for one online though. I go to the gym that is located in my office building, so I've never really researched any other options.
– Yeah, I'd like to find a place where additional classes are offered. Maybe yoga or aerobics?
Independent Practice
Underline adjective clauses.
- That time when we got lost, I got really scared.
- The reason why Olly quit his job seemed made up.
- Anything that is grown organically is quite expensive.
- I wouldn't trust a hairdresser whose hairstyle is not stylish.
- My parents love talking about the days when there was no Internet.
- Our company needs someone who has 5 years of experience in this field.
Write 2 sentences with restrictive clauses and 2 sentences with nonrestrictive ones.
- ....................
- ....................
- ....................
- ....................