3. Use a noun clause as the subject or the object of the main verb in a sentence. How this all was organized was something I was curious about. I learned that bicycles were available for rent everywhere . Noun clause - SUBJECT Noun clause - OBJECT
4. Do not use question word order in a noun clause. I wondered how the Velib bikes were paid for . I wondered. How were the Velib bikes paid for? Normal question word order Noun clause word order
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7. Use a question word followed by an infinitive to express either should or can/could . Riders can choose when and where to drop off the bikes . I found out how to get access to the bicycles . I found out how I could get access to the bicycles. Riders can choose when and where they should drop off the bikes.
8. Certain verbs and adjectives often come in front of that- noun clauses. I think that it is a very good way to cut down on car traffic and air pollution . Verb + that -clause Person + be + adjective + that -clause Anna is proud that the Velib bicycle program is going so well . It + be + adjective + that -clause It is important that cities find ways to cut down on car traffic and air pollution .
9. Use quotation marks before and after the exact words of a speaker. The man said , “ I use it everyday. I’m retired, so I have a lot of free time, and I use it to visit Paris .” I use it every day. I’m retired, so I have a lot of free time, and I use it to visit Paris.
10. Don’t use quotation marks in reported speech. I change bikes within the free 30 minutes, so I never have to pay. He said that he changes bikes within the free 30-minute period, so he never has to pay .
Note: Usually, the verb in reported speech changes to the past if the main verb is past tense, but in this sentence the man is reporting something that happens every day.