1. The compound-complex sentence Sentence Structures Diana Hacker – A Canadian Writer’s Reference Ann Hogue – The Essentials of English: A Writer’s Handbook

2. The compound-complex sentence At least two (2) independent clauses + at least one (1) subordinate clause. Example: I will eat chocolate cake when I get home, but I will only have a little bit. Merlin is really hyper when the sun goes down, and he refuses to play after he eats.

3. Exercise Identify the independent clause(s) and the subordinate clause (s) in the following sentences: John went to school, but James remained at home because he had a sore throat. If he changes his mind, we shall know for sure that Joe has learned his lesson, but only time will tell. Those clouds promise rain; we should hurry before we get caught in a flash flood. Here is the money that I owe you, and I am happy to be free of debt. Were you ever in a storm that was full of lightning, or don't you recall?

4. Remember Independent clause = most important idea Subordinate clause = less important idea Subordinate clause ALWAYS begins with a subordinating conjunction. Subordinate clause can be removed from the sentence, and the sentence will still make sense.