Comp

III Name________________________________________________
Fennessy/Nham Period _________

Sentence Structures

An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and verb and expresses a complete
thought. An independent clause is a sentence.

A dependent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and verb but does not express a complete
thought. A dependent clause cannot be a sentence.

Sentence Types

Simple Sentences
A simple sentence has one independent clause.

I like butter and toast.

Compound Sentences
A compound sentence consists of two or more independent clauses, joined by a conjunction or semi-
colon.

The best games are ones that are challenging, but I like ones with cards the most.
The largest animals grow in the sea; there is no other place for them!

Complex Sentences
A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.

Parallel lines never cross, until you bend one of them.

Compound-Complex Sentences
A compound-complex sentence has at least two independent clauses and at least one dependent
clause.


I planned to drive my car, but I couldnt until the mechanic fixed my car.

DIRECTIONS: Every sentence has an independent and dependent clause. Draw a box around the independent
clause and underline the dependent clause.

1. The dog was at the clinic for three hours while the splinter was being removed.
2. When the handle was yanked, the latch broke off.
3. My dad said that I can come over and play if I clean my room.
4. Our soccer ball bounced over the fence after Marcus kicked it too high.
5. While our pizza was baking, we set the table with our dinner dishes.
6. The fifth graders earned extra free time in class because they lined up quietly each day for a month.
7. I get my homework completed early whenever I have football practice after school.
8. Brian studied his notes for the history test, so he scored at 83% on it.
9. Even though the air is cold outside, Sean wears shorts to school every day.
10. After Ms. Nham announced the cookie dough winner, everyone stood up and clapped their hands.

DIRECTIONS: On a separate sheet of paper, create your own sentences.

1. Write 5 simple sentences.
2. Write 5 compound sentences.
3. Write 5 complex sentences.
4. Write 5 compound-complex sentences.