Mr Culling's Sentence Types (general)

Define a "complex" sentence.

Answer explanation

A complex sentence is a sentence with one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.

(https://www.grammarly.com/blog/complex-sentence/)

Define a "compound" sentence and explain why it is different to a complex sentence.

Answer explanation

A compound sentence is a sentence that connects two independent clauses, typically with a coordinating conjunction like and or but. They're best for combining two or more self-sufficient and related sentences into a single, unified one.

(https://www.grammarly.com/blog/compound-sentence/)

What is a simple sentence?

Answer explanation

A simple sentence is an independent clause that conveys a single, complete thought. Unlike a complex sentence, a simple sentence does not contain dependent or subordinate clauses.

(https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-a-simple-sentence)

Every child likes an ice cream.

• Simple

• Complex

• Compound

Answer explanation

It is simple because there is only one subject and one object.

I saw him going to work in the morning when I was going to school.

• Simple

• Compound

• Complex

Answer explanation

The word "when" indicates a condition in the sentence. So it is a complex sentence.

Even after all these years, when I saw her, I was as excited as the first day.

• Simple

• Compound

• Complex

Answer explanation

Can you spot the conditional clause in the sentence?

Does she live in Paris?

• Simple

• Compound

• Complex

Answer explanation

While this is an interrogative sentence (it asks a question), it still only has one subject and one object, with not conjunctions or conditional clauses. So it is simple.

I like coffee, and Mary likes tea.

• Simple

• Compound

• Complex

Answer explanation

The sentence is compound. It can be split into two independent clauses. Notice the conjunction "and".

She doesn't study German on Monday.

• Simple

• Compound

• Complex

Answer explanation

Did you think this was a complex sentence? The phrase "on Monday" might trick you into thinking the sentence has a conditional clause. It is an adjectival clause, not a conditional clause. It therefore belongs to the object of the sentence (German). It forms a singular noun group.

While I was cooking he was still playing games on the computer.

• Simple

• Compound

• Complex

Answer explanation

There is a conditional clause in this sentence.