EnglishFreePrintable

Complex Sentence Writing Practice

A free english worksheet ready for your classroom. Open in Kuraplan to grab the print-ready PDF, customize it for your students, or generate a fresh version in seconds.

Download now

Name:Date:

Complex Sentence Writing Practice

A complex sentence has one main clause and at least one dependent clause. A subordinating conjunction, such as although or because, often introduces the dependent clause. Use a comma after a dependent clause when it comes first.

Identify the sentence type

Choose simple, compound or complex for each sentence.

1.The coastguard launched the boat because a kayaker needed help.

Simple
Compound
Complex

2.Freya packed the picnic, and Zoe filled the water bottles.

Simple
Compound
Complex

3.After the bell rang, the class put away their books.

Simple
Compound
Complex

4.Select every subordinating conjunction in this list.

while
or
unless
so
since
yet

Combine and punctuate

Join each pair into one complex sentence using the conjunction provided. Your wording may vary while keeping the same meaning.

5.The lighthouse lamp shone brightly. Ships could see the rocks. (because)

6.The path was steep. Hana reached the lookout. (although)

7.Add the necessary punctuation and capitalisation: before the tide came in we moved our towels

8.Add the necessary punctuation and capitalisation: Tane stayed inside because the wind was strong

Write complex sentences

Complete each stem with a sensible dependent or main clause. Answers will vary; sample answers are provided.

9.Finish the sentence with a main clause: Even though the library was closing, ...

10.Write a dependent clause to complete the sentence: We took a torch ...

11.Write two complex sentences about exploring a New Zealand place. Use a different subordinating conjunction in each sentence and punctuate both correctly.

12.Challenge: Write one complex sentence that contains two dependent clauses. Underline or identify both dependent clauses.