Sentence Structure Mrs. Burhenn

Types of Sentences There are four types of sentences Simple Compound Complex Compound-Complex

Simple Sentences Simple Sentences contain one independent clause. They contain one subject and one verb (predicate), but either one can be compound. Examples: John went to the store. John and Stacey went to the store. John went to the store and bought some milk. John and Stacey went to the store and bought some milk.

Compound Sentences Compound sentences contain two or more independent clauses joined by either a semi-colon or a coordinating conjunction such as: and, but, yet, so, etc. Examples: John went to the store, and Stacey picked up the dry cleaning. Men are from Mars; women are from Venus. I went to bed early; however, my husband stayed up to watch the football game.

Complex Sentences A complex sentences contains one independent clause (main) and at least one dependent clause that are joined by a subordinating conjunction such as: until, while, even though Examples: Even though the sun is millions of miles away, it still provides the Earth with ample heat. Until I go back to the doctor, I can’t get my cast off. I won’t know how to react until I see him.

Compound-Complex Sentences Compound-complex sentences contain at least two independent clauses and at least one dependent clause. Examples: When the heat comes, the lakes dry up, and farmers know the crops will fail. I planned to drive to work, but I couldn't until the mechanic repaired my car.

Compound Punctuation Independent clause, coordinating conjunction independent clause. Independent clause; conjunctive adverb, independent clause. Independent clause; independent clause.

Complex Punctuation Dependent clause, independent clause Independent clause dependent clause

How Do You Know? First, eliminate all prepositional phrases or appositive phrases. Next, identify the subject(s) and verb(s). Then, identify the number and type of clauses. Finally, match the number of clauses with the type of sentence.

Practice Because Rocklin students are so excited about their learning and do well on the state tests, several of the schools in Rocklin have won awards.

Practice The teachers at Granite Oaks are friendly, and they know how to help students.

Practice Some students walk to school every morning.

Practice Students at Lawrence High School often leave campus to go to lunch, and they will usually be late to class even though there is plenty of good food at school.