TYPES OF SENTENCE STRUCTURE

SIMPLE SENTENCES: A simple sentence is an independent clause with no conjunction or dependent

clause.
➢ Sally ran to school.
COMPOUND SENTENCES: A compound sentence is two independent clauses joined by a conjunction
(For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So).
➢ The team was very tired, but they still finished the game.
COMPLEX SENTENCE - A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one
dependent clause. The clauses in a complex sentence are combined with conjunctions and
subordinators, terms that help the dependent clauses relate to the independent clause.

After As long as Because Before Although As Even if

In order to If In case Once That Though
Until When Whenever Wherever While

➢ Although it was raining, we decided playing outside was a good idea.

COMPOUND-COMPLEX SENTENCE - A compound-complex sentence contains multiple independent
clauses and at least one dependent clause. These sentences will contain both conjunctions and
subordinators.
➢ I was going to ride my bike to the park, but I didn't because my bike tires were flat.

PRACTICE: Identify whether the sentences are simple, complex, compound or compound-complex.
Please underline dependent clauses where it applies.
_____________1. Vampires Dairies is my favorite television show, but I also love True Blood.
_____________ 2. The student wiped the white board that was filthy with last week’s notes.
_____________ 3. The trendy fashion designer released her new line on Wednesday.
_____________ 4. Trina and Hareem went to a bar in Hollywood to celebrate their anniversary.
_____________ 5. Wicked Regina cast a spell on the entire city, so the citizens decided to rebel.
_____________ 6. While waiting for the paint to dry, Angela went to Home Depot, and Martin organized
the kitchen appliances.
_____________ 7. After listening to the Kanye West CD, I have new respect for his music.

_____________ 8. After the teacher chose groups, John and Sara were selected as partners for a
project, yet Sarah did most of the work.
_____________ 9. The shoplifter had stolen clothes, so he ran once he saw the police.

_____________ 10. After the two soccer players lost their game, they joined their other teammates for
lunch, and they went to the movies