Simple Sentences

a sentence (subject & predicate) with one main idea, a complete thought.

My friend is funny.

Compound Sentences

a sentence that uses a conjunction and has two sentences inside it

I love playing golf but putting can be very difficult. 

Complex sentences 

 a sentence that contains an independent clause and one or more dependent clauses. An independent clause can stand alone as a sentence, but a dependent clause even though it has a subject and a verb cannot stand alone. 

I heated my water in the microwave because it was cold.

independent clause

a complete sentence that can stand on their own.

I heated my water in the microwave.

dependent clause

not complete sentences- they have to be part of a larger sentence. 

Because it was cold

“Sentence Snap Sort”
Tell me if it simple, complex, or compound be aware of why, you might be asked.

Combing Sentences

Improving Sentence Fluency & Becoming More Concise in Our Writing

Ways to Combine Sentences

1. Combine two independent clauses (complete sentences) with a comma and a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS).

Example: Marque wanted to go to the store, so he borrowed his mom's car.

2. Use a semicolon to join two independent clauses.

The cat could be outside; it could also be in the garage.

Ways to Combine Sentences Continued...

3. Combining sentences with the same subjects and verbs.

Original Sentences: John graduated from high school. He aced all of his classes.

Combined Sentence: John graduated from high school and aced all of his classes.

Let's Practice!