Simple, Compound, and Complex Sentences

Front

What is a simple sentence?

Back

A simple sentence contains one independent clause and expresses a complete thought.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence consists of two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).

Front

What is a complex sentence?

Back

A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause, connected by a subordinating conjunction.

Front

Give an example of a simple sentence.

Back

The cat sleeps.

Front

Give an example of a compound sentence.

Back

I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.

Front

Give an example of a complex sentence.

Back

Although it was raining, we decided to go for a hike.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence and usually begins with a subordinating conjunction.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause can stand alone as a complete sentence and expresses a complete thought.

Front

What are subordinating conjunctions?

Back

Subordinating conjunctions are words that connect an independent clause with a dependent clause (e.g., because, although, since).

Front

What are coordinating conjunctions?

Back

Coordinating conjunctions connect words, phrases, or independent clauses (e.g., for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).