Complex Sentences

Complex Sentences

A complex sentence contains one simple sentence (independent clause) and at least one dependent clause.

• A dependent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a predicate, but doesn’t express a complete thought so it can’t stand alone as a sentence.

Dependent clauses are often separated from independent clauses in complex sentences by subordinating conjunctions.

• Ex. When the cake is brown, take it out of the oven.

• Ex. She watched the movie before she read the book.

Choose "yes" or "no" to identify whether each sentence is complex.

Multiple Choice

Kaitlin went upstairs after she cleaned the dishes.

• yes

• no

Multiple Choice

While Jeremy was washing the car, his dog played in the yard.

• yes

• no

Multiple Choice

Palm trees sway in the ocean breeze.

• yes

• no

Multiple Choice

After we finished, we showed Mom and Dad our presentation.

• yes

• no

Identify the dependent clauses.

(contains a subordinating conjunction and can't stand alone)

Multiple Choice

James laughed when his dad dropped the pie on the floor.

• James laughed

• when his dad dropped the pie on the floor

Multiple Choice

Although my friend invited me to the party, I do not want to go.

• Although my friend invited me to the party

• I do not want to go

Multiple Choice

Because the bridge was not sturdy, it fell down.

• Because the bridge was not sturdy

• it fell down

Identify the independent clauses.

(can stand alone as a complete sentence)

Multiple Choice

Consumers buy fewer goods when prices rise.

• Consumers buy fewer goods

• when prices rise

Multiple Choice

The cat made a mess that I must clean up.

• The cat made a mess

• that I must clean up

Multiple Choice

Whenever I eat at this restaurant, I order a cheeseburger and fries.

• Whenever I eat at this restaurant

• I order a cheeseburger and fries