When we look at how sentences are built in Japanese, it's important to know the difference between two types of clauses: coordinating clauses and subordinating clauses. This knowledge helps us create more complex sentences.

1. Coordinating Clauses
Coordinating clauses connect two or more parts of a sentence that can stand on their own. In Japanese, we often use words like と (to), meaning "and," and そして (soshite), meaning "and then."

For example:

• 彼は日本語を勉強しています、そして彼は英語も話せます。
  (Kare wa Nihongo o benkyō shiteimasu, soshite kare wa Eigo mo hanasemasu.)
  ("He is studying Japanese, and he can also speak English.")

In this sentence, both parts express complete ideas and are just linked together.

2. Subordinating Clauses
Subordinating clauses are different because they can't stand by themselves. They need a main part of the sentence to make sense. These clauses often start with words like から (kara - "because"), ので (node - "since"), or もし (moshi - "if").

For example:

• 今晩映画に行く予定ですが、雨が降ったら行きません。
  (Konban eiga ni iku yotei desu ga, ame ga futtara ikimasen.)
  ("I plan to go to the movies tonight, but if it rains, I won't go.")

In this sentence, "if it rains" is a subordinating clause. It gives extra information that depends on the main idea.

In summary: Coordinating clauses connect equal parts of a sentence, while subordinating clauses give extra details that rely on the main part. Knowing this difference is very important for making clear and interesting sentences in Japanese!