Simple, Complex, and Compound Sentences

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What is a simple sentence?

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A simple sentence contains a subject and a verb, and it expresses a complete thought. Example: 'The cat sleeps.'

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What is a compound sentence?

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A compound sentence consists of two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so). Example: 'I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.'

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What is a complex sentence?

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A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. Example: 'Although it was raining, we went for a walk.'

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Identify the structure: 'The surface, or photosphere, is frequently studied.'

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Simple sentence.

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Identify the structure: 'Space exploration has renewed our interest in the sun.'

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Simple sentence.

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Identify the structure: 'John retired when he turned 65.'

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Complex sentence.

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Identify the structure: 'Nuclear reactions within the sun produce its energy.'

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Simple sentence.

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Identify the structure: 'They gave all the profits that they had made from the sale to the city's homeless shelter.'

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Compound sentence.

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What is a coordinating conjunction?

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A coordinating conjunction connects words, phrases, or clauses that are similar or equal. Examples include: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so.

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What is a dependent clause?

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A dependent clause is a group of words that has a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought. Example: 'Because it was raining.'