Compound and Complex Sentences

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What is a compound sentence?

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A compound sentence is a sentence that contains at least two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (like 'and', 'but', or 'or'). 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 is a sentence that contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. Example: 'Although it was raining, we went for a walk.'

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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. It has a subject and a verb. Example: 'She loves to read.'

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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. It has a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought. Example: 'Because she loves to read.'

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What is a coordinating conjunction?

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A coordinating conjunction is a word that connects two independent clauses. The most common coordinating conjunctions are 'for', 'and', 'nor', 'but', 'or', 'yet', and 'so' (FANBOYS).

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Identify the type of sentence: 'After dinner is over, we will drink hot chocolate.'

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This is a complex sentence because it has a dependent clause ('After dinner is over') and an independent clause ('we will drink hot chocolate').

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Identify the type of sentence: 'You can wear your warm coat, or you can stay inside.'

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This is a compound sentence because it has two independent clauses connected by the coordinating conjunction 'or'.

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What is the purpose of using complex sentences?

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Complex sentences add variety to writing and allow for more detailed expression of ideas by combining independent and dependent clauses.

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What is the purpose of using compound sentences?

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Compound sentences help to connect related ideas and make writing more fluid by linking independent clauses.

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Identify the type of sentence: 'Because I took lessons, I know how to ski very well.'

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This is a complex sentence because it has a dependent clause ('Because I took lessons') and an independent clause ('I know how to ski very well').