Seventh graders learn the difference between phrases (word groups with no subject-verb pair) and clauses (word groups that DO have a subject and verb) — the building blocks that shape every sentence.
Students will be able to…
“Under the table” and “the dog barked” are both groups of words — but only one could stand as a sentence. What’s the difference between a phrase and a clause?
Project this and sort each word group into clauses (have a subject + verb) or phrases (no subject-verb pair).
Tap any phase to open the teacher moves and student actions.
“Under the table” vs. “the dog barked” — what’s the difference?
Teacher models.
Class uses Phrase or Clause?
Students identify.
Students share a group.
Aligned to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts.
Explain the function of phrases and clauses in general and in specific sentences.
Choose among simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex sentences.
Demonstrate command of standard English grammar.
Produce clear and coherent writing.
Preview the three formative checks. Tap “Sample answer” to see what mastery looks like — hide them before you print for students.
Have students sort clauses into independent (can stand alone) and dependent (needs more), then build complex sentences. A printable phrases-and-clauses sheet is in the ELA library.
Tap a card to flip it, then rate whether you knew it. Built from this lesson’s vocabulary.
A quick self-check with instant feedback, drawn from this lesson’s key terms.
A print-and-go review sheet with a built-in answer key. Tap “Show answer key” to reveal answers, or print the clean version for students.