Mastering Sentence Structure

Mastering Sentence Structure

• Sentence Basics: A complete sentence is made up of at least 1 independent clause.

• Subject and Predicate: A subject and a verb (predicate) make a sentence.

• Types of Clauses: Dependent clauses have a subordinating conjunction or participle phrase.

• Sentence Fragments: Dependent clauses, missing subjects or missing verbs create a fragments.

• Run-on Sentences: 2 independent clauses with nothing between them but a comma, or joining more than 2 independent clauses creates a run-on.

Mastering Sentence Structure

• Identifying Sentence Fragments
• Understanding the structure of a complete sentence
• Recognizing common fragment errors
• Strategies for correcting sentence fragments

Types of Sentence Fragments

• A sentence fragment is an incomplete sentence that lacks a subject, a verb, or both.
• There are three main types of sentence fragments: noun fragments, verb fragments, and dependent clause fragments.
• Noun fragments lack a verb, verb fragments lack a subject, and dependent clause fragments lack an independent clause.
• It is important to identify and revise sentence fragments to ensure clear and complete sentences.

Sentence Fragment Types

Noun fragments are incomplete sentences that lack a subject,

verb fragments lack a verb

dependent clause fragments are incomplete thoughts.


Remember, a complete sentence needs both a subject and a verb!

Recognizing Run-on Sentences

• Definition: A run-on sentence is a sentence that contains two or more independent clauses without proper punctuation or conjunctions.

• Examples: 'I love to read books I also enjoy watching movies.'

• How to recognize: Look for long, unpunctuated sentences or sentences joined by only a comma.

• FIX IT: Separate independent clauses with period, semicolon, or conjunction.

Run-on Sentences

• A run-on sentence contains two or more independent clauses without proper punctuation or conjunctions.

• It is a common mistake in writing and can make the sentence confusing or hard to read.

• Properly punctuating and connecting independent clauses is essential for clear and effective communication.

Mastering Sentence Structure

• Use punctuation correctly to separate independent clauses.
• Avoid using coordinating conjunctions without a comma.
• Break long sentences into shorter, more concise ones.
• Use subordinating conjunctions to connect dependent clauses.
• Proofread for run-on sentences and revise accordingly.

Breaking Down Sentences

Trivia: Did you know that long sentences can be broken into shorter, more concise ones? This not only improves readability but also enhances clarity and understanding. By eliminating unnecessary words and using proper punctuation, you can create impactful sentences that pack a punch!