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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Identify the parts of a complex sentence.

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A complex sentence consists of an independent clause (a complete thought) and a dependent clause (which cannot stand alone).

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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 a dependent clause to an independent clause, such as 'because', 'although', or 'when'.

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Identify a subordinating conjunction in a complex sentence.

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In the sentence 'When the sun sets, the sky turns orange', 'when' is the subordinating conjunction.

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How do you identify a complex sentence?

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Look for a sentence that has one independent clause and at least one dependent clause, often introduced by a subordinating conjunction.

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What is the purpose of a complex sentence?

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Complex sentences allow writers to show relationships between ideas, such as cause and effect or contrast.

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Can a complex sentence be long?

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Yes, complex sentences can be long and include multiple clauses, but they still must contain at least one independent and one dependent clause.