Simple and Compound Sentences

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What is a simple sentence?

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A simple sentence is a sentence that contains one independent clause and expresses a complete thought. Example: 'The dog barks.'

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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 (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 coordinating conjunction?

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A coordinating conjunction is a word that connects two independent clauses. The seven coordinating conjunctions are: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so.

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How do you separate two independent clauses in a compound sentence?

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You can separate two independent clauses with a comma followed by a coordinating conjunction, or with a semicolon. Example: 'I like tea, and she likes coffee.' or 'I like tea; she likes coffee.'

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What is a dependent clause?

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

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

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A comma is used before a coordinating conjunction to separate two independent clauses in a compound sentence. Example: 'I wanted to eat, but I was not hungry.'

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What is a run-on sentence?

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A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses are joined without proper punctuation or conjunctions. Example: 'I love to read I have many books.'

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How can you correct a run-on sentence?

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You can correct a run-on sentence by adding a period, a semicolon, or a coordinating conjunction. Example: 'I love to read. I have many books.'

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What is a compound-complex sentence?

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A compound-complex sentence is a sentence that has at least two independent clauses and at least one dependent clause. Example: 'Although I like to read, I don't have time, and I prefer to watch movies.'

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

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