Four Types of Sentences

(Simple, compound, complex, and compound

complex)

Independent Clause• 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. •Ex: Jim studied in the cafeteria for his chemistry quiz.

Dependent Clauses

• 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. Often a dependent clause is marked by a dependent marker word.•When Jim studied in the cafeteria for his Chemistry quiz. (NOT a sentence!)

Simple Sentences• Composed of a single independent clause (can stand alone – SUB + VERB) and no dependent clauses (cannot stand alone – SUB + VERB)• Example: I had a nice Summer Break.

Compound Sentences• Made up of two or more independent

clauses:• Clauses may be connected with: •Coordinating Conjunction (FANBOYS)• SUB + VERB + CONJ + SUB + VERB

•Semicolon alone• SUB + VERB ; SUB + VERB

•Semicolon and a Conjunctive Adverb• SUB + VERB ; CONJ ADV + SUB + VERB

Compound Sentence Examples

• Coordinating Conjunction:• I went to Gatlinburg and I went to Michigan.

• Semicolon Alone:• I celebrated Christmas with my family early; I wasn’t going to be here on the actual day.

• Semicolon and Conjunctive Adverb• I was glad to see all of my family; however, it was nice to sit and relax too.

Complex Sentences• Is composed of one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses.•DEP CLAUSE, SUB + VERB (one form)•Example: While I was in Gatlinburg, I attended a basketball tournament.•Example: Once I got home from my trip, I didn’t want to do anything because I was so exhausted.

Compound-Complex Sentences

• These sentences combine a compound sentence and a complex sentence.• Contains two or more independent clauses

and at least one dependent clause.• Example: I enjoyed my break, but I was glad

to come back to school because I missed seeing your smiling faces everyday!•SUB + VERB + CONJ + SUB + VERB + CONJ + DEP CLAUSE