Compound Sentences Writing Workshop

Name:

Date:

📚 Part 1: Understanding Compound Sentences

What is a compound sentence? A compound sentence contains two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) or a semicolon.

Example: I wanted to go to the cinema, but my friend preferred staying home.

Success Criteria: I can identify independent clauses and coordinating conjunctions in compound sentences.

1. Which of these is a compound sentence?

The dog barked loudly at the postman.

I studied hard for the exam, so I felt confident.

Although it was raining, we went for a walk.

The book that I borrowed was fascinating.

2. Identify the coordinating conjunction in this sentence: "She wanted to buy a new dress, yet she didn't have enough money."

The coordinating conjunction is: _______________

3. Tick all the coordinating conjunctions below:

and

because

but

although

4. Complete this compound sentence: "The weather was terrible, _______ we decided to cancel our picnic."

because

although

when

✏️ Part 2: Creating Compound Sentences

Success Criteria: I can combine two independent clauses using appropriate coordinating conjunctions and correct punctuation.

Remember: Use a comma before the coordinating conjunction when joining two independent clauses.

Differentiation Support: Use the memory aid FANBOYS (For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So) to remember coordinating conjunctions.

5. Combine these two sentences into a compound sentence using an appropriate coordinating conjunction:

Simple sentences: "The library was closed. We went to the bookshop instead."

6. Create a compound sentence using the conjunction "yet":

7. Fix this compound sentence by adding the missing punctuation:

"I love chocolate ice cream but my sister prefers vanilla."

8. Choose the best coordinating conjunction to complete this sentence: "The film was three hours long, _______ it was absolutely brilliant."

and

but

🎯 Part 3: Writing Practice & Extension

Success Criteria: I can write a coherent paragraph using at least three compound sentences with varied coordinating conjunctions.

9. Write a short paragraph (4-5 sentences) about your weekend plans. Include at least THREE compound sentences using different coordinating conjunctions.

10. Extension Activity: Rewrite this paragraph by combining some simple sentences into compound sentences to improve the flow:

"I woke up early. I was excited about the school trip. We were going to the Natural History Museum. I had never been there before. I packed my lunch. I forgot my camera. My mum reminded me to take it."

Dyslexia-Friendly Support: If reading is challenging, ask a partner to read the examples aloud, or use text-to-speech software.

Advanced Extension: Research semicolons as another way to join independent clauses in compound sentences, and try writing two examples using semicolons instead of coordinating conjunctions.