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Fixing Fragments 1. Dependent Clause Fragments

Dependent word list:

after although though as because before even though how if even if in order that since that so that unless until what whatever when whenever where wherever whether which whichever while who whoever whose once whereas rather than provided that

Correct a dependent word fragment by:

1. omitting the dependent word and capitalizing the next word.

Ex: Although The weather looks nice.

2. combining the dependent clause with an independent clause to create a

complete sentence.

Ex: Although the weather looks nice, it is actually cold outside.

Things to remember: omitting the dependent word can create choppy

sentences; if a dependent clause includes a subordinating conjunction and

comes at the beginning of the sentence, use a comma to set it apart from the

independent clause.

2. –ing and To Fragments

Correct –ing and to fragments by:

1. attaching the –ing or to fragment to the sentence before or after.

Ex: I will attend class everyday beginning with the new school year.

2. adding a subject and changing the –ing verb to the correct form.

Ex: Running with scissors. I will not run with scissors.

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3. Added-detail fragments

These fragments usually begin with one of the following words: Especially, Except, For

Example, Including, Such as, Also.

Correct an added-detail fragment by:

1. attaching the fragment to the preceding sentence to make a complete

thought.

Ex: Please gather what you need to bring to the slumber party, such as

your sleeping bag, pillow, and pajamas.

2. add a subject and verb to make it a complete sentence.

Ex: Also, we will drive through Springfield on our way to St. Louis.

Things to remember: use a comma before transitional words when combining

the fragment to a preceding sentence.

4. Missing subject fragments

Correct a missing subject fragment by:

1. attaching it to the preceding sentence.

Ex: And walks to work every afternoon. Sara takes the city bus to

school every morning and walks to work every afternoon.

2. adding a subject

Ex: Stayed up all night studying for the test. I stayed up all night

studying for the test.

**Remember to read each group of words by itself. If there is a subject, a verb, and a complete

thought, the group of words can be considered a complete sentence.