Simple, Compound, Complex Sentences

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What is a simple sentence?

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A simple sentence contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. Example: 'Skylar likes to play second base.'

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What is a compound sentence?

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A compound sentence contains 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 complex sentence?

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A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. Example: 'Since there is a 50% chance of rain, I'm going to bring an umbrella on our field trip.'

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What is a dependent clause?

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

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What is an independent clause?

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An independent clause is a group of words that has a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. Example: 'I enjoy reading.'

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What is a coordinating conjunction?

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A coordinating conjunction connects words, phrases, or independent clauses. The main coordinating conjunctions are: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so.

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

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A comma is used before the coordinating conjunction to separate the two independent clauses. Example: 'I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.'

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What is a fragment?

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A fragment is a group of words that does not express a complete thought and cannot stand alone as a sentence. Example: 'Before we go to the bank.'

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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 identify a complex sentence?

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A complex sentence can be identified by the presence of a dependent clause and an independent clause. Look for subordinating conjunctions like 'because,' 'although,' or 'since.'