Simple, Compound & Complex Sentences

Front

What is a simple sentence?

Back

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

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence consists of two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction. Example: 'I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.'

Front

What is a complex sentence?

Back

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

Front

Identify the structure: 'The dog barked.'

Back

Simple sentence.

Front

Identify the structure: 'I like ice cream, and my brother likes cake.'

Back

Compound sentence.

Front

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

Back

Complex sentence.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence. Example: 'She enjoys reading.'

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a sentence and usually begins with a subordinating conjunction. Example: 'Because she was tired.'

Front

What is a conjunction?

Back

A conjunction is a word that connects clauses or sentences. Examples include 'and', 'but', and 'or'.

Front

What is the purpose of a semicolon in a compound sentence?

Back

A semicolon is used to connect two independent clauses without a conjunction. Example: 'I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight.'