Complex Sentences

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What is a complex sentence?

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A complex sentence is a sentence that contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.

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What is an independent clause?

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An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence because it expresses a complete thought.

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What is a dependent clause?

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A dependent clause is a group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence because it does not express a complete thought.

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Example of a complex sentence.

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

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What is a subordinating conjunction?

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A subordinating conjunction is a word that connects an independent clause with a dependent clause, such as 'although', 'because', 'since', and 'when'.

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Identify the independent clause: 'When the sun sets, the sky turns orange.'

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The independent clause is 'the sky turns orange.'

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Identify the dependent clause: 'Because I was tired.'

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The dependent clause is 'Because I was tired.' It cannot stand alone.

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What is the purpose of a complex sentence?

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The purpose of a complex sentence is to show the relationship between ideas, often indicating cause and effect, time, or contrast.

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How can you turn a simple sentence into a complex sentence?

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You can turn a simple sentence into a complex sentence by adding a dependent clause using a subordinating conjunction.

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Example of a simple sentence.

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"I like ice cream."