How to Combine Coordinating & Subordinating Clauses in IELTS Writing

Objective:
To understand how to combine ideas using coordination and subordination, and use them effectively in IELTS Writing and Speaking to achieve better coherence, grammatical range, and accuracy.

🔍 Overview

🌿 What Are Clauses?

A clause is a group of words that has a subject and a verb.
There are two main types:

Independent Clause: Can stand alone as a complete sentence.
👉 Example: “I practice English daily.”
Dependent (Subordinate) Clause: Cannot stand alone; it depends on an independent clause.
👉 Example: “Because I practice English daily.”

In IELTS, combining clauses smartly helps you move beyond simple sentences, showing grammatical sophistication — a must for Band 7+ in Writing and Speaking.

🧱 Two Main Ways to Combine Clauses

1️⃣ Coordination (Joining Equal Ideas)

Used to connect two or more independent clauses — ideas that are equally important.

Coordinating Conjunctions (FANBOYS):

For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So

Structure:
Clause 1 + , + coordinating conjunction + Clause 2

Examples:

Some students study every day, but they still struggle with grammar.
I read English newspapers, and I watch documentaries to improve my vocabulary.
I was tired, so I decided to take a short break.

✅ IELTS use: Coordination helps you present balanced arguments and connect ideas clearly in Task 2 essays or Speaking responses.

2️⃣ Subordination (Showing Relationships)

Used to connect a dependent clause with an independent clause — showing cause, contrast, condition, or time.

Common Subordinating Conjunctions:

Relationship	Conjunctions	IELTS Example
Cause/Reason	because, since, as	I study English daily because* I want to work abroad.*
Contrast	although, even though, whereas, while	Although online learning is convenient, it lacks personal interaction.
Condition	if, unless, provided that	You can achieve Band 7 if you practice regularly.
Time	when, while, after, before, until, since	I have been learning English since* I was a child.*
Purpose	so that, in order that	I take mock tests so that* I can measure my progress.*

✅ IELTS use: Subordination adds depth and logic — crucial for coherence and cohesion.

💬 Examples in IELTS Context

1. Coordination Example (Writing Task 2):

Many people prefer working from home, but others find it less productive.

2. Subordination Example (Speaking Part 3):

Although technology has many benefits, it can also make people less social.

3. Mixed Example (Advanced Use):

Although online education is flexible, some learners struggle with motivation, so they attend in-person classes instead.

🧠 Practice Activities

✳️ Activity 1: Identify the Clause Type

Identify whether the underlined part is an independent or dependent clause.

I enjoy watching documentaries because they improve my vocabulary.
Although the exam was difficult, she managed to do well.
When students practice regularly, their grammar improves.
Some people study at night, but others prefer early mornings.
He didn’t attend the lecture since he was feeling unwell.

🧩 Activity 2: Combine Clauses Using FANBOYS

Join the sentences using the correct coordinating conjunction. For, And, No, But, Or, Yet, So
1. I revised the essay. I improved my coherence.

2. Some students prefer online learning. Others enjoy studying in class.

3. I was nervous about the test. I practiced mock exams daily.

4. Grammar can be challenging. It is essential for high IELTS scores.

5. I didn’t study yesterday. I was too tired.

✒️ Activity 3: Combine Clauses Using Subordination

Combine the following pairs using the subordinating conjunction given in brackets.
1. I study English daily. I want to achieve Band 8. (because)

2. The question was difficult. I tried to answer it. (although)

3. You can improve quickly. You practice speaking every day. (if)

4. I avoid distractions. I can focus better. (so that)

5. I’ve been learning English. I moved to Canada. (since)

🧮 Activity 4: Error Correction — Clause Connection

Find and fix the errors in clause combinations.
1. I study hard, because I want to get high score.

2. Although the topic was easy, but many students made mistakes.

3. I didn’t attend the lecture, so because I was late.

4. When I will get the results, I tell you.

5. He practices speaking daily, since he want to be fluent.

✍️ Activity 5: Clause Creation Drill

so that

Create your own sentences using the given conjunctions.

because
although
if
whereas
so that

🗣️ Activity 6: IELTS Speaking Practice — Combining Ideas Naturally

Use both coordination and subordination in your answers.

Questions:

What do you do to prepare for IELTS?
How do you balance your studies and daily life?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of online learning?
Do you think grammar is important for communication? Why?
How do you handle stress during exam preparation?

💡 Band 7+ Sample:

“I usually study in the morning because that’s when I’m most focused, and I revise again in the evening to strengthen my memory.”
“Although IELTS can be stressful, I try to stay calm so that I can perform my best.”

💎 IELTS Writing Integration

📘 Example — Task 2

Question: Some people believe that the internet has made life easier, while others think it has created new problems. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Sentences Using Coordination & Subordination:

Although the internet has improved communication, it has also increased distractions for students.
Many people rely on online services, but they are concerned about privacy and security.
Because technology is constantly evolving, individuals must adapt to new tools.
The internet connects people globally, so it has become an essential part of modern life.

🧠 Mini Quiz

Choose the sentence that correctly uses coordination or subordination:

A. Although online learning is flexible, but some students prefer face-to-face classes.
B. Online learning is flexible, but some students prefer face-to-face classes.
C. Because online learning is flexible, so some students prefer face-to-face classes.

✅ Answer: B — It correctly uses but for coordination without redundancy.

💬 IELTS Tip

🎯 To reach Band 7+, show your ability to connect ideas logically using a mix of coordinating and subordinating clauses.
Avoid overusing “and” or “because.” Variety and precision are key to demonstrating grammatical range.

🌟 Conclusion

Understanding how to combine clauses through coordination and subordination transforms your writing and speaking.
You move from sounding basic to sounding fluent, logical, and professional — exactly what IELTS examiners reward.

“Words express thoughts; clauses connect them into meaning.”

Learn About All the 4 Sentence Structures Here with Exercises