Simple, Compound, Complex, Compound-Complex Sentences

complex sentence

1 dependent clause and 1 independent clause usually with a conjunction

compound complex sentence

1 dependent clause and 2 independent clauses - usually with a FANBOY and conjunction

simple sentence

1 independent clause

compound sentence

2 independent clauses - usually with a FANBOY and a comma

independent clause

can stand alone (a sentence)

dependent clause

cannot stand alone (not a sentence)

9. Tom had a dog named Clifford because that was his favorite book.

complex sentence - because

3. Before Mama left, she told us to clean our rooms.

complex sentence - before

10. Even though it was snowing, we wanted to play outside.

complex sentence - even though

20. Unless it is cloudy at night, I watch the night stars through the telescope.

complex sentence - unless

7. It was taller than every other tree around and I wanted to climb it before Mom came looking for me.

compound complex sentence - and, before

18. I could take an art class, or I could take gymnastics until school starts in September.

compound complex sentence - or, until

14. Melody was worried about going to the hospital, yet she didn't ask any questions; instead she stayed quiet.

compound complex sentence - yet, instead

11. Mama got the shovel, and she began to scrape the snow off of the driveway.

compound sentence - and

2. The class finished their work, and then they had recess.

compound sentence - and

4. Oscar sprinted downstairs to see his mom, but she wasn't there.

compound sentence - but

16. I want to go to the movies, or I want to stay home.

compound sentence - or

13. The students were excited for the field trip, so they had trouble keeping their voices quiet.

compound sentence - so

6. The young tree would not survive the winter, so they wrapped it's roots in burlap.

compound sentence - so

8. I could see our tree outside the window, so I decided to build a tree house.

compound sentence - so

FANBOYS

for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so - look for a comma before the FANBOY

1. Oscar leaped up the porch.

simple sentence

12. Everyone stood back to admire the new tree.

simple sentence

15. I would either like tacos or hamburgers for dinner.

simple sentence

17. Millions of people knew her by her name and her mission.

simple sentence

19. The night was completely silent.

simple sentence

5. Oscar told his mom about his day.

simple sentence