Punctuating Compound and Complex Sentences

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is a sentence that contains at least two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).

Front

What is a complex sentence?

Back

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

Front

What is a coordinating conjunction?

Back

A coordinating conjunction is a word that connects two independent clauses. Examples include: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause is a group of words that has a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.

Front

What punctuation is used before a coordinating conjunction in a compound sentence?

Back

A comma is used before a coordinating conjunction when it joins two independent clauses.

Front

Is the following sentence correct? 'Since it's the last day we'll celebrate in Advisory.'

Back

No, it is a dependent clause and needs an independent clause to complete the thought.

Front

Is the following sentence correct? 'Mrs. Naftzger was honored because Luke gave her his autograph.'

Back

Yes, it is a correct complex sentence.

Front

Is the following sentence correct? 'Josh needed to make some revisions, so Lily and Mia helped him.'

Back

Yes, it is a correct compound sentence.

Front

Is the following sentence correct? 'Some people get hangry, when they haven't eaten lunch.'

Back

No, the comma before 'when' is unnecessary.

Front

Is the following sentence correct? 'Mr. Rowland tried to boss Glory around, so I yelled at him.'

Back

Yes, it is a correct compound sentence.