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Chapter 10 of 41

Simple, Compound, and Complex Sentences

Build complete simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex structures.

38 minutes 10 quick checksBy Subha Prasad
Lesson 10 of 41Course navigation

Lesson content

Read, practise, then check your understanding

A simple sentence has one independent clause, even with compound subjects or verbs. A compound sentence joins independent clauses correctly. A complex sentence combines an independent and dependent clause; a compound-complex sentence has at least two independent clauses plus a dependent clause.

Patterns and examples

  • Mira read and annotated the chapter. (simple)
  • Mira read the chapter, and Ari took notes. (compound)
  • Because the exam was near, they studied. (complex)

Notice how form and meaning work together. Read examples aloud, identify the controlling word or clause, and compare them with nearby alternatives before applying the pattern in new writing.

Practice sentences

  • Classify three example sentences.
  • Combine: The rain stopped. We left. The road was flooded.

After answering, explain the rule in your own words and create one original sentence using the same structure.

Knowledge check

Answer every question correctly to complete this chapter.

Which explanation correctly describes simple sentence?
Which grammar term matches this explanation: One independent clause, possibly with compound elements.
Which explanation correctly describes compound sentence?
Which grammar term matches this explanation: Two or more independent clauses joined correctly.
Which explanation correctly describes complex sentence?
Which grammar term matches this explanation: One independent clause plus at least one dependent clause.
Which explanation correctly describes compound-complex sentence?
Which grammar term matches this explanation: At least two independent clauses plus a dependent clause.
Which explanation correctly describes sentence fragment?
Which grammar term matches this explanation: An incomplete unit presented as a complete sentence.

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Simple, Compound, and Complex Sentences | Grammar Lesson | Subha Prasad