Grammar Terms: Clauses and Conjunctions
Use and understand Year 3 grammatical terminology accurately when discussing reading and writing: preposition, conjunction, word family, prefix, clause, subordinate clause, direct speech, consonant letter, vowel letter, inverted commas/speech marks
Suggested ages 7–9
Learning journey
Your child is learning more sophisticated grammar — using irregular verbs and plurals correctly, punctuating speech, choosing the right pronouns and conjunctions, and understanding when to use different verb tenses.
Evidence of understanding
- Use the terms 'clause' and 'subordinate clause' to identify parts of a multi-clause sentence (e.g., point to the subordinate clause in 'I stayed inside because it rained')
- Use the terms 'conjunction', 'preposition', and 'prefix' correctly when explaining word/sentence choices in own writing
- Distinguish between consonant letters and vowel letters and use the terms 'direct speech' and 'inverted commas' when discussing punctuation
Assessment prompt
If you ask Grammar Terms: Clauses and Conjunctions to find a "subordinate clause" or a "preposition" in a sentence from their book, can they point one out and explain what it means?
Standards alignment
L.3.1a
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 3
Terminology for pupils
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 2
Use grammatical terminology
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 2
Learn grammar for years 3 and 4
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 2