25 Best Exercises on Adverb Clauses for ESL Learners

Understanding adverb clauses can be a challenge for ESL learners. While native speakers use them naturally, students often struggle with when to use because, although, if, and while correctly in a sentence.

This post is here to change that. You’ll find 25 carefully designed exercises on adverb clauses that guide your students from simple identification to complex sentence creation.

Each activity targets a specific skill—recognizing clause types, completing sentences, correcting common mistakes, and even writing original ideas using real-life context.

These exercises work well in any setting—group practice, homework, or even self-study. They’re practical, engaging, and completely ready to go—no prep needed.

Whether your learners are beginners just discovering dependent clauses or advanced students polishing their fluency, you’ll find something that fits their level.

What Are Adverb Clauses?

An adverb clause is a group of words that works like an adverb. It tells us when, why, how, or under what condition something happens.

It always has a subject and a verb, and it usually starts with a subordinating conjunction like because, although, if, when, or since.

📌 Example:
I stayed home because it was raining.
(“because it was raining” is the adverb clause. It tells why I stayed home.)

Adverb clauses cannot stand alone. They are dependent clauses and must be connected to a main (independent) clause.

💡Tip: When the adverb clause comes first, use a comma. If it comes after, you usually don’t need one.

Common Words in Adverb Clauses

Subordinating Conjunction	Example Sentence
because	She left early because she was tired.
although	Although it was cold, they went swimming.
if	If it rains, we’ll cancel the picnic.
when	When I arrived, they were already eating.
while	He listened to music while he was studying.
since	Since you’re here, let’s get started.
unless	You won’t pass unless you study hard.
before	Wash your hands before you eat.
after	After the movie ended, we went for coffee.
even though	Even though he’s rich, he lives simply.
as	He acted as if nothing had happened.
until	Wait here until I come back.
as soon as	Call me as soon as you arrive.
whenever	Whenever I see her, she smiles.
so that	I explained it clearly so that everyone could follow.

Also see: 30 Adjective exercises for all-level ESL students

Exercise 1: Choose the Clause

Level: Beginner

Instructions: Read each sentence. Choose the correct adverb clause from the options to complete the sentence.

1. I stayed home ___ it was raining.
   a) because
   b) although
   c) if
2. She smiled ___ she saw her friend.
   a) until
   b) when
   c) unless
3. ___ he was tired, he finished the work.
   a) Because
   b) Although
   c) If
4. We won’t go out ___ the rain stops.
   a) if
   b) unless
   c) until
5. ___ you study, you will pass.
   a) If
   b) Although
   c) Because
6. He ran home ___ he heard the thunder.
   a) when
   b) before
   c) so that
7. ___ she is busy, she always helps.
   a) Even though
   b) If
   c) Until
8. We ate dinner ___ we watched TV.
   a) unless
   b) while
   c) although
9. ___ he practices every day, he improves.
   a) Because
   b) When
   c) While
10. She left early ___ she had a meeting.
    a) because
    b) unless
    c) though
11. ___ it rains, we will cancel the game.
    a) When
    b) If
    c) While
12. I waited ___ the bus arrived.
    a) although
    b) before
    c) until
13. ___ he was late, the teacher let him in.
    a) Although
    b) Because
    c) When
14. I’ll call you ___ I get home.
    a) if
    b) while
    c) when
15. We can’t leave ___ Dad comes back.
    a) until
    b) if
    c) so that

Exercise 2: Complete the Cause

Level: Beginner

Instructions: Complete each sentence using an adverb clause that shows reason or cause (e.g., “because I was sick”).

1. I stayed in bed _________________.
2. She missed the bus _________________.
3. They were late _________________.
4. He failed the test _________________.
5. I was happy _________________.
6. We stopped playing _________________.
7. The baby cried _________________.
8. She didn’t go out _________________.
9. The match was canceled _________________.
10. I made tea _________________.
11. He shouted _________________.
12. They clapped _________________.
13. The dog barked _________________.
14. I laughed _________________.
15. My mom was worried _________________.

Exercise 3: Circle the Time Clause

Level: Beginner

Instructions: Read each sentence. Circle the part that shows time (the adverb clause).

1. I’ll call you when I arrive.
2. She was cooking while I watched TV.
3. After I eat, I’ll go to sleep.
4. He goes jogging before work starts.
5. We waited until the rain stopped.
6. When the movie ended, we left.
7. While I was walking, I saw a cat.
8. As soon as she came, we started.
9. I’ll go to bed once I finish this.
10. After he left, we cleaned up.
11. Before the sun rises, we’ll leave.
12. I brushed my teeth after breakfast.
13. When he got home, he was tired.
14. We stayed inside until it stopped snowing.
15. While they were talking, I finished the work.

Exercise 4: Match and Connect

Level: Beginner

Instructions: Match each sentence part in Column A with the correct adverb clause in Column B. Write the complete sentence.

Column A	Column B
1. She was sad	a) because he was sick.
2. He didn’t come	b) when she heard the news.
3. They ran inside	c) before you sleep.
4. Brush your teeth	d) until the lights came on.
5. I’ll visit you	e) after the game ended.
6. We went home	f) although it was raining.
7. Wait here	g) when the bell rings.
8. I brought an umbrella	h) if I have time.
9. He didn’t talk much	i) because it started to rain.
10. Leave the room	j) while I was cleaning.
11. She found the money	k) while he was sleeping.
12. I broke the glass	l) because I dropped it.
13. He was dreaming	m) although he studied hard.
14. He failed the exam	n) while cleaning the table.
15. She smiled	o) when she saw her brother.

Exercise 5: Fill the Gap with a Reason

Level: Beginner

Instructions: Fill in the blank in each sentence with your own reason using an adverb clause (e.g., “because I was tired”).

1. I didn’t go out ___________________________.
2. She laughed ___________________________.
3. He stayed inside ___________________________.
4. We stopped working ___________________________.
5. They didn’t eat ___________________________.
6. I cried ___________________________.
7. The baby was quiet ___________________________.
8. We left the party ___________________________.
9. He didn’t answer ___________________________.
10. She was angry ___________________________.
11. I fell asleep ___________________________.
12. The teacher smiled ___________________________.
13. We clapped ___________________________.
14. My phone broke ___________________________.
15. They were worried ___________________________.

Exercise 6: When or While?

Level: Beginner

Instructions: Choose “when” or “while” to complete each sentence correctly.

1. I was cooking ___ he came home.
2. She was singing ___ I entered the room.
3. He fell asleep ___ he was reading.
4. I called her ___ I got to work.
5. We ate dinner ___ we watched TV.
6. ___ the teacher was talking, I took notes.
7. She smiled ___ she opened the gift.
8. He ran away ___ the dog barked.
9. ___ I was washing the car, it started raining.
10. I hurt my leg ___ I was playing football.
11. The lights turned off ___ we entered the room.
12. I met him ___ I was at the bus stop.
13. She was quiet ___ I asked the question.
14. He sneezed ___ he was walking.
15. I found the keys ___ I looked under the table.

Exercise 7: Because or So?

Level: Beginner

Instructions: Complete each sentence using “because” or “so” correctly.

1. I was tired, ___ I went to bed.
2. She stayed home ___ she was sick.
3. He didn’t study, ___ he failed the test.
4. We left early ___ the traffic was bad.
5. I was cold, ___ I wore a jacket.
6. They were hungry, ___ they ordered food.
7. She was crying ___ she lost her book.
8. I missed the bus, ___ I walked to school.
9. He didn’t understand, ___ I explained again.
10. We arrived late ___ the car broke down.
11. I forgot my keys, ___ I couldn’t get in.
12. She was nervous ___ it was her first day.
13. It was raining, ___ we stayed inside.
14. The baby was sleepy, ___ he took a nap.
15. I felt happy ___ I passed the exam.

Exercise 8: Mix and Match Time Sentences

Level: Beginner

Instructions: Match the two sentence parts to create a complete sentence using time-related adverb clauses.

Part A	Part B
1. I’ll call you	a) until she finishes.
2. We waited	b) after I take a shower.
3. She will not leave	c) as soon as the sun sets.
4. They started singing	d) when we finish dinner.
5. I usually go to bed	e) while I was walking.
6. I’ll help you	f) after the show ended.
7. The light turned off	g) before the teacher comes.
8. I was thinking	h) while I was in the kitchen.
9. The music started	i) when I get home.
10. He brushed his teeth	j) as soon as he woke up.
11. You must finish your work	k) while the cake was baking.
12. I’ll go outside	l) when I’m done with homework.
13. We cleaned the house	m) until the bus arrived.
14. He dropped his phone	n) when the movie began.
15. Leave your bag here	o) when it got dark.

Exercise 9: Correct the Clause Confusion

Level: Beginner

Instructions: Each sentence below has a mistake with the adverb clause. Correct the sentence.

1. He runs fast because he want to win.
2. I stayed in home although it was sunny.
3. When I will see her, I will tell her.
4. She cried because she was happy.
5. We go to the park while it’s raining.
6. He was tired so he didn’t went.
7. I called her after I eat dinner.
8. She laughs although he is serious.
9. I didn’t go because I was tiredness.
10. If it rains, we stays home.
11. He shouted when he sees the snake.
12. They came although it was too late.
13. When I studied, I hear music.
14. She won’t leave if you doesn’t come.
15. I left early so that I can catch the bus.

Exercise 10: Underline and Identify

Level: Beginner

Instructions: Read each sentence. Underline the adverb clause and say what kind it is (time, reason, condition, contrast, purpose).

1. I stayed home because I was sick.
2. She left when the bell rang.
3. He runs every day so that he stays healthy.
4. Although he was late, he finished his work.
5. We won’t go if it rains.
6. I’ll wait until you come back.
7. He smiled because he passed.
8. While she was cooking, I was cleaning.
9. Unless you hurry, we’ll be late.
10. After the movie ended, we went home.
11. Even though it’s hard, I try.
12. Since it’s raining, take an umbrella.
13. As soon as she arrived, the show began.
14. He exercises though he’s tired.
15. In case it rains, bring a coat.

Exercise 11: Complete the Adverb Clause

Level: Intermediate

Instructions: Complete each sentence using an adverb clause that makes sense. Use different types like time, reason, condition, contrast, or purpose.

1. I’ll help you ______________________.
2. She went to bed early ______________________.
3. They canceled the picnic ______________________.
4. You can’t watch TV ______________________.
5. He kept talking ______________________.
6. We didn’t eat ______________________.
7. I’ll call you ______________________.
8. He walks to school ______________________.
9. The baby cried ______________________.
10. Don’t open the door ______________________.
11. I’m going to study harder ______________________.
12. They stayed inside ______________________.
13. She smiled ______________________.
14. I’ll go to the market ______________________.
15. He missed the meeting ______________________.

Exercise 12: Sentence Transformation

Level: Intermediate

Instructions: Rewrite each sentence using an adverb clause as shown in the example.
Example: He was tired. He went to bed. → He went to bed because he was tired.

1. I was hungry. I made a sandwich.
2. It was raining. We stayed inside.
3. She was late. She missed the bus.
4. He finished his homework. He played games.
5. I will go out. I finish my homework.
6. He ran fast. He wanted to win.
7. I’ll call you. I get home.
8. They left early. They didn’t want to be late.
9. We’ll stay home. It rains.
10. She studied hard. She passed the exam.
11. You should come early. You don’t miss the show.
12. I wore a jacket. It was cold.
13. They arrived. The movie started.
14. He kept talking. I was reading.
15. I’ll help you. You ask nicely.

Exercise 13: Choose the Clause Type

Level: Intermediate

Instructions: Read each adverb clause in bold. Write whether it shows time, reason, contrast, condition, or purpose.

1. I’ll go out after I finish work.
2. She ran faster so that she could catch the bus.
3. Although he was tired, he continued working.
4. If you study, you’ll pass.
5. We stayed home because it was raining.
6. He smiled when he saw the gift.
7. I won’t go unless you come with me.
8. Even though it’s hard, I enjoy teaching.
9. She works hard so that she can save money.
10. Since we were hungry, we ordered pizza.
11. I’ll wait until she arrives.
12. While I was cooking, the phone rang.
13. He will not go if he’s sick.
14. Because I like music, I joined the club.
15. As soon as class ends, let’s talk.

Exercise 14: Fix the Mixed Sentences

Level: Intermediate

Instructions: Each sentence has an adverb clause, but some are in the wrong position or need punctuation. Rewrite the sentences correctly.

1. I will call you when I get home.
2. Because she was sick she didn’t come.
3. While he cooked dinner I cleaned the room.
4. We’ll start when everyone arrives.
5. If you don’t study you might fail.
6. He didn’t sleep although he was tired.
7. When it rains, we stay home.
8. Unless you try you won’t succeed.
9. She left the room after the meeting was over.
10. Although it’s cold we are going out.
11. Since I was busy I didn’t go.
12. He laughed when he saw the photo.
13. As soon as it started we sat down.
14. When the power went out we lit candles.
15. So that he could focus he closed the door.

Exercise 15: Create Your Own

Level: Intermediate

Instructions: Complete each sentence by adding your own original adverb clause. Be creative and use different clause types.

1. I’ll talk to you ______________________.
2. She left the room ______________________.
3. They canceled the game ______________________.
4. We stayed inside ______________________.
5. He wore a coat ______________________.
6. Don’t open the door ______________________.
7. The baby smiled ______________________.
8. She cried ______________________.
9. I’ll join the trip ______________________.
10. They didn’t speak ______________________.
11. You can’t leave ______________________.
12. I’ll work late ______________________.
13. He bought new shoes ______________________.
14. We had a great time ______________________.
15. He called me ______________________.

Exercise 16: Fill in the Blanks with the Right Conjunction

Level: Intermediate

Instructions: Choose the correct subordinating conjunction to complete each sentence. Use: because, although, if, when, unless, while, since, after, before, so that, even though.

1. I’ll call you __________ I get home.
2. She passed the test __________ she studied hard.
3. We can’t leave __________ it stops raining.
4. He didn’t come __________ he was sick.
5. You won’t understand __________ you listen carefully.
6. She was smiling __________ she was upset inside.
7. He turned off the light __________ he went to bed.
8. We waited __________ the rain stopped.
9. Don’t touch the stove __________ it’s hot.
10. I need to leave early __________ I can catch the train.
11. She cooked dinner __________ I was setting the table.
12. I didn’t go out __________ I was feeling tired.
13. __________ I finish this task, I’ll join you.
14. We’ll begin __________ everyone arrives.
15. He bought snacks __________ the movie started.

Exercise 17: Identify the Adverb Clause and Its Function

Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Instructions: Underline the adverb clause in each sentence and write what it shows: time, reason, contrast, purpose, or condition.

1. He stayed at home because he was tired.
2. She smiled when she saw her students.
3. Although it was late, they kept talking.
4. You won’t pass unless you try.
5. They left early so that they could catch the train.
6. Since it’s raining, let’s take the bus.
7. If you mix red and blue, you get purple.
8. I’ll visit you after I finish work.
9. While she was cooking, the kids played.
10. He joined the class although he was nervous.
11. We’ll leave before it gets dark.
12. Even though I’m tired, I’ll continue.
13. I’ll go with you if I have time.
14. Because he loves music, he plays guitar every day.
15. I waited until she called.

Exercise 18: Sentence Rewriting for Contrast Clauses

Level: Advanced

Instructions: Rewrite each sentence to show contrast using although, even though, or while.

1. He is rich. He lives a simple life.
2. She was tired. She continued working.
3. It’s raining. They are playing outside.
4. I studied. I didn’t pass the test.
5. He apologized. I was still upset.
6. They were hungry. They didn’t eat.
7. She is shy. She loves acting on stage.
8. The task is difficult. I enjoy doing it.
9. I explained it. He didn’t understand.
10. He’s only 10. He can solve hard puzzles.
11. I don’t like fish. I ate it anyway.
12. The room was small. It felt cozy.
13. She practiced a lot. She lost the match.
14. I know him well. I don’t trust him.
15. They smiled. They were disappointed.

Exercise 19: Choose the Best Clause

Level: Intermediate

Instructions: Choose the best adverb clause to complete the sentence.

1. I’ll call you
   a) if I hungry
   b) unless I sleep
   c) when I get home
2. He wore a jacket
   a) although it was warm
   b) if it rains
   c) because he hungry
3. We left early
   a) while the rain
   b) so that we could catch the train
   c) when we arriving
4. She cried
   a) since she was happy
   b) unless she happy
   c) if she loves cake
5. You won’t win
   a) because you try
   b) if you don’t train
   c) while tired
6. He smiled
   a) even though he was sad
   b) although he hungry
   c) because she smiled
7. They waited
   a) before it starts
   b) until the show began
   c) so that it ends
8. I’ll help you
   a) when I have time
   b) while I eating
   c) unless he late
9. We stayed home
   a) because it was snowing
   b) so that warm
   c) even though sunny
10. She stopped
    a) while read
    b) because she tired
    c) although she wanted to continue
11. They ran fast
    a) so that they could win
    b) unless tired
    c) while raining
12. He stayed inside
    a) after rain stop
    b) because it was cold
    c) although it’s sunny
13. I laughed
    a) when I see her face
    b) if she joked
    c) because it was funny
14. You won’t understand
    a) unless you listen
    b) while talk
    c) although study
15. We waited
    a) before the teacher arrive
    b) when it rains
    c) until she came

Exercise 20: Combine the Sentences

Level: Advanced

Instructions: Combine the two sentences into one using an appropriate adverb clause.

1. I was tired. I went to bed.
2. It started raining. We were walking.
3. She was late. She missed the beginning.
4. He studies a lot. He wants to succeed.
5. I’ll visit you. I have time.
6. You won’t learn. You don’t practice.
7. He wore gloves. It was cold.
8. I finished my homework. I watched TV.
9. The phone rang. I was cooking.
10. They canceled the trip. It was stormy.
11. I didn’t go. I was invited.
12. She kept talking. I was trying to read.
13. He didn’t stop. He was tired.
14. We’ll start. Everyone arrives.
15. I joined the team. I love sports.

Exercise 21: Error Correction

Level: Intermediate

Instructions: Each sentence below contains an error in the adverb clause. Find and correct it.

1. I’ll call you because I arrive home.
2. He didn’t go out although it was raining.
3. When I was a child, I visit my grandma often.
4. You can’t succeed if you will not try.
5. We waited so that the bus comes.
6. Since he was tired, so he slept early.
7. I watched TV during I was eating.
8. Unless you will study, you won’t pass.
9. After he finished eat, he washed the dishes.
10. I was running because I saw the dog.
11. She stayed calm even although she was angry.
12. While I had breakfast, my phone rings.
13. I’ll help you if you will ask me.
14. Before we leave, we locked the doors.
15. Although he is rich, but he lives simply.

Exercise 22: Adverb Clause Transformation Challenge

Level: Advanced

Instructions: Transform the adverb clause in each sentence into a phrase or make the sentence more concise, without changing the meaning.

1. While I was studying, he called me.
2. Although she was tired, she continued.
3. If you do not hurry, you’ll miss the bus.
4. Because he is smart, he solved it quickly.
5. Before he went to bed, he brushed his teeth.
6. Even though he was late, he got the job.
7. When I saw her, I waved.
8. Since it was raining, we stayed inside.
9. After he arrived, he made a speech.
10. Unless you try harder, you won’t improve.
11. Because she forgot her key, she waited outside.
12. Although they worked hard, they failed.
13. While I was walking home, I found a coin.
14. Since he’s allergic, he avoids peanuts.
15. When you open the app, it loads slowly.

Exercise 23: Match the Clause Pairs

Level: Beginner to Intermediate

Instructions: Match the beginning of each sentence in Column A with its correct ending in Column B.

Column A	Column B
1. I couldn’t sleep	a. because it was raining.
2. They left early	b. when she heard the news.
3. He stayed inside	c. although he was tired.
4. We waited	d. after I drank coffee.
5. She cried	e. so that they could arrive on time.
6. I went to the doctor	f. while she was cleaning the house.
7. He continued working	g. before the class began.
8. The kids slept	h. because I felt sick.
9. I usually walk to work	i. since the weather was nice.
10. She found the ring	j. if it’s not too far.
11. I’ll help you	k. unless you ask me.
12. I’ll stay	l. until the rain stopped.
13. We’ll eat dinner	m. when they return.
14. You won’t succeed	n. if you don’t work hard.
15. I relax	o. after I finish my homework.

Exercise 24: Short Writing – Use an Adverb Clause

Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Instructions: Write 5 short sentences for each prompt using different adverb clauses. Use various conjunctions such as because, although, when, while, since, if, and until.

Part A: Write 5 sentences about your daily routine.
Part B: Write 5 sentences about what you do in different weather.
Part C: Write 5 sentences showing contrast in your life.

Exercise 25: Create Your Own Sentences

Level: All Levels

Instructions: Create your own complete sentences using the following adverb clause conjunctions. Write one sentence for each word.

1. because
2. although
3. when
4. while
5. if
6. unless
7. since
8. after
9. before
10. so that
11. even though
12. as soon as
13. in case
14. until
15. whenever

Conclusion

Mastering adverb clauses opens the door to clearer and more natural English. With the right practice, students not only understand the grammar rules—they begin to use complex, expressive sentences with confidence.

These 25 exercises give your learners a step-by-step way to grow their skills. From recognizing clauses to writing their own, every activity builds a deeper understanding.

Feel free to mix and match the tasks based on your class level or learning goals. And if you’d like to have them handy in print or share with colleagues, don’t forget to download the PDF version below.

Keep exploring and teaching with intention—your students are on the right path!

FAQs about Exercises on Adverb Clauses

What is an adverb clause in simple terms?
An adverb clause is a group of words with a subject and verb that gives more information about when, why, how, or under what condition something happens.

What are some common conjunctions used in adverb clauses?
Words like because, although, when, while, if, since, and unless are commonly used to introduce adverb clauses.

What’s the difference between an adverb and an adverb clause?
An adverb is a single word (like quickly), while an adverb clause is a group of words with its own subject and verb (like because he was late).

Can adverb clauses come at the beginning of a sentence?
Yes! Adverb clauses can come at the beginning or end of a sentence. Just remember to use a comma when they come first.

Are these exercises good for all learner levels?
Yes. The post includes exercises for beginner, intermediate, and advanced students, so you can choose what fits your class best.

How can I help students remember conjunctions for adverb clauses?
Using charts, color coding, and grouping conjunctions by function (time, cause, condition, etc.) helps students remember them more easily.

Do students need to master adverb clauses for fluency?
While not required for basic communication, adverb clauses are essential for expressing more complex ideas and improving fluency.

Can I use these exercises for homework?
Absolutely. Most of the activities are self-contained and work well as homework or extra practice.

Do adverb clauses always need a comma?
Only when the adverb clause comes at the beginning of a sentence. If it’s at the end, no comma is usually needed.