Writing Complex Sentences Complex Sentence n A complex

Writing Complex Sentences

Complex Sentence n A complex sentence is a simple sentence (independent clause) combined with one or more dependent clauses. n n Because I like to study grammar, I love this class because I like to study grammar. (The dependent clause needs the rest of the sentence for support. )

Fragment! Because I like to study grammar. • A dependent clause contains a subject and verb. • It begins with a subordinating conjunction, and • it does not express a completed thought. • A dependent clause is also called a subordinate clause.

Sequencing Complex Sentences n Dependent Clause First (comma needed) n n After the players practiced, they went out for a pizza. Independent Clause First (no comma) n The players went out for pizza after they practiced.

A Note on Punctuation of Complex Sentences n Since dependent clauses are only part of a sentence, you can never connect them to another sentence with a semicolon. Semicolons are only used between two independent clauses. n n I have loved you for years ; although I never admitted it. No! I have loved you for years, although I never admitted it. OK

Common Subordinating (Dependent) Conjunctions (DO NOT COPY) after even if although even though as if now that once though whereas rather than unless whenever since because in order that before wherever until whether so that when which than in case while

Compound/Complex Sentence A compound/complex sentence is the most complicated type of sentence. n It contains at least one dependent clause and at least two independent clauses. (A dependent clause added to two or more independent clauses) n

Sequencing Compound-Complex Sentences n Dependent Clause First n n Dependent Clause Second n n After the party was over, Jean had a headache, so Paul cleaned up the house. Jean had a headache after the party was over, so Paul cleaned up the house. Dependent Clause Third n Jean had a headache, so Paul cleaned up the house after the party was over.

(DO NOT COPY) Since every sentence in English fits into one of these four categories, Simple Compound Complex Compound/ complex

(DO NOT COPY) YOU NOW KNOW EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW • To write anything you want to write • Any way you want to write it • And still get the punctuation right each time! CONGRATULATIONS!