English Language Arts
Grade 8
15 min
Use relative pronouns: who, whom, whose, which, and that
Use relative pronouns: who, whom, whose, which, and that
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Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Identify relative pronouns (who, whom, whose, which, that) in complex sentences.
Correctly differentiate between 'who' and 'whom' based on their grammatical function within a relative clause.
Apply the correct relative pronoun ('which' or 'that') to introduce restrictive and non-restrictive clauses.
Use 'whose' to indicate possession within a relative clause.
Construct grammatically correct sentences using relative pronouns to combine ideas and add detail.
Revise sentences to improve clarity and conciseness by effectively employing relative pronouns.
Explain the role of relative pronouns in forming complex sentences and enhancing argumentative writing.
Ever wonder how to make your sentences flow better a...
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Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
Relative PronounA word that introduces a dependent (relative) clause and connects it to an antecedent (the noun or pronoun it modifies) in the main clause. It functions as a pronoun within its own clause and as a conjunction linking the clauses.The student, *who* aced the test, studied diligently.
Relative ClauseA type of dependent clause that begins with a relative pronoun and describes or gives more information about a noun or pronoun (its antecedent) in the main clause. It cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.The book *that I borrowed* is due tomorrow.
AntecedentThe noun or pronoun that a relative pronoun refers back to and modifies. It usually precedes the relative clause.The scientist (antecedent) *whose research was groundbreaking* received an award.
Restr...
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Key Rules & Conventions
Who vs. Whom: Subject vs. Object
'Who' is used when the relative pronoun is the subject of the verb in the relative clause. 'Whom' is used when the relative pronoun is the object of the verb or a preposition in the relative clause.
To decide between 'who' and 'whom', temporarily replace the relative pronoun with 'he/she' (for 'who') or 'him/her' (for 'whom') within the relative clause. If 'he/she' fits, use 'who'. If 'him/her' fits, use 'whom'.
Which vs. That: Restrictive vs. Non-Restrictive
'That' is used to introduce restrictive clauses (essential information, no commas). 'Which' is used to introduce non-restrictive clauses (non-essentia...
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Challenging
In an argumentative essay, a student writes: "The proposed law, which fails to address the root causes of the problem, is a superficial solution." How does the non-restrictive clause enhance the argument?
A.It provides a simple, neutral definition of the law.
B.It introduces a counterargument that the author will later support.
C.It adds a critical judgment about the law directly after naming it, framing it negatively for the reader.
D.It signals to the reader that the information is unimportant and can be skipped.
Challenging
Revise the following sentence for maximum clarity and conciseness using a relative clause: "A theory is very popular among physicists. This theory attempts to unite gravity with quantum mechanics."
A.theory, which is popular, attempts to unite gravity with quantum mechanics.
B.popular theory among physicists, which attempts to unite gravity with quantum mechanics, is interesting.
C.There is a theory, and it attempts to unite gravity with quantum mechanics, and it is popular.
D.theory that is very popular among physicists attempts to unite gravity with quantum mechanics.
Challenging
Three of the following sentences are grammatically correct. Which one contains a subtle error in the use of a relative pronoun?
A.The person to whom I addressed the letter has not yet replied.
B.She is the one candidate whom I believe will win the election.
C.The company, whose profits have doubled, is expanding its workforce.
D.This is the path that leads to the waterfall.
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