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Sentence Structures Unpacked

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Sentence Structures Unpacked

Read each item carefully. A simple sentence has one independent clause; a compound sentence has two or more independent clauses; and a complex sentence has an independent clause and at least one dependent clause. Use the answer lines to explain your thinking where asked.

Identify sentence structures

Choose the structure that best describes each sentence.

1.A narrow path wound through the cedar forest.

Simple
Compound
Complex

2.The bus was late, so Amira called her coach.

Simple
Compound
Complex

3.Since the rink was closed, the team practised in the gym.

Simple
Compound
Complex

4.The librarian arranged the new books and updated the catalogue.

Simple
Compound
Complex

5.While the snow fell softly, lights glowed in the windows, and cars moved slowly along the street.

Simple
Compound
Complex
Compound-complex

6.The forecast promised sunshine, yet dark clouds gathered over the harbour.

Simple
Compound
Complex
Compound-complex

Examine clauses and sentence parts

For each sentence, identify its subject(s), predicate(s), and clause type(s). Label each clause independent (I) or dependent (D).

7.Before the doors opened, the audience waited in the lobby. Identify the subject and predicate in each clause and label each clause I or D.

8.Amelia packed the lunches, and her brother filled the water bottles. Identify the subject and predicate in each clause and label each clause I or D.

9.Although the trail was steep, Daniel reached the lookout before noon. Identify the subject and predicate in each clause and label each clause I or D.

10.The science class explored the wetlands after lunch. Identify the subject and predicate, then label the clause I or D.

11.If the ferry arrives on time, we will reach the island before sunset. Identify the subject and predicate in each clause and label each clause I or D.

12.Rain tapped on the roof while the wind rattled the shutters. Identify the subject and predicate in each clause and label each clause I or D.

Match clause terms

Match each term to the definition that describes it.

13.Match each grammar term on the left with its definition on the right.

Independent clause
Dependent clause
Subject
Predicate
Coordinating conjunction
Subordinating conjunction

A group of words with a subject and verb that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.
The part of a clause that tells what the subject does or is.
A joining word such as and, but, or, so, or yet that can connect equal grammatical parts.
A word such as because, although, or when that introduces a dependent clause.
The person, place, thing, or idea that the clause is about.
A group of words with a subject and verb that can stand as a complete sentence.

Build and revise sentences

Write your own example for each prompt. Check that your clauses fit the requested structure and that your punctuation is correct.

14.Write a simple sentence about a season. Include one independent clause.

15.Write a compound sentence about a school activity. Connect two independent clauses with a coordinating conjunction and use the correct punctuation.

16.Write a complex sentence that begins with a dependent clause about travelling in winter. Use a comma between the clauses.

17.Write a sentence about preparing for an event that contains at least two independent clauses and one dependent clause. Include correct punctuation.