Complex Sentences

Complex Sentences

HMH Lesson 1.4.2

Complex Sentences

A complex sentence is made up of a simple sentence and a clause joined by a subordinating conjunction.

Simple Sentence + Dependent Clause = Complex Sentence

Subordinating conjunctions include because, although, until, if, and since.

Do not use a comma if the subordinating conjunction is in the middle of the sentence.

Complex Sentence Examples

The parrotfish does not eat other fish since it is an herbivore.

I need a new pair of sneakers because I have grown out of my old ones.

Since it is already late, we are not going to start watching the movie today.

Compound vs Complex Sentences

Remember, compound sentences join TWO simple sentences with a comma and connecting word like and, or, but, or so.

A complex sentence has ONE simple sentence joined with a dependent clause using because, although, until, if, or since.

The house was destroyed in the fire, but the whole family was saved. (Compound)

The teacher returned the homework because she noticed the student forgot the second page. (Complex)

Multiple Select

Identify the correct subordinating conjunctions for the complex sentence: Juana will not dance in the recital _____ she broke her foot in a bike accident.

• because

• although

• until

• if

• since

Multiple Choice

Identify the correct subordinating conjunction for the complex sentence: The dog stays quiet _____ he sees a rabbit.

• because

• although

• until

• if

• since

Multiple Choice

Identify the correct subordinating conjunction for the complex sentence: The fourth graders will be in trouble _____ the teacher sees them playing games on their tablets.

• because

• although

• until

• if

• since

Multiple Select

Identify the correct subordinating conjunctions for the complex sentence: Dallas had to leave his friends at the pool _____ pets are not allowed and he had Sparky with him.

• because

• although

• until

• if

• since

Multiple Choice

Identify the correct subordinating conjunction for the complex sentence: Deshawn took apples to the party _____ he knows some of the kids won't eat them.

• because

• although

• until

• if

• since