Is the sentence simple, compound or complex?
Key Notes:
Is the Sentence Simple, Compound, or Complex? 📝🌈
| Simple Sentence 😃 |
Definition: A sentence that has only one independent clause (one complete idea).
Structure: Subject + Verb (+ Object/Complement)
Examples:
- I like ice cream. 🍦
- The dog barked loudly. 🐶
Key Tip: One idea = Simple sentence.
| Compound Sentence 🤝 |
Definition: A sentence that has two or more independent clauses joined by coordinating conjunctions (FANBOYS: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).
Structure: Clause + Conjunction + Clause
Examples:
- I wanted to play, but it started raining. ☔
- She sings beautifully, and he plays the guitar. 🎤🎸
Key Tip: Two complete ideas joined = Compound sentence.
| Complex Sentence 🧩 |
Definition: A sentence that has one independent clause and at least one dependent (subordinate) clause.
Common Subordinating Conjunctions: because, although, since, if, when, while
Structure: Independent Clause + Subordinate Clause (or vice versa)
Examples:
- I stayed home because it was raining. 🌧️🏠
- Although she was tired, she finished her homework. 📚💪
Key Tip: Independent + dependent clause = Complex sentence.
| Quick Emoji Memory Aid 🧠💡 |
| Sentence Type | Emoji | How to Remember |
|---|---|---|
| Simple | 😃 | One idea only |
| Compound | 🤝 | Two ideas joined by FANBOYS |
| Complex | 🧩 | One idea + one extra clause (like puzzle pieces) |
| 💡 Extra Tip: |
Ask yourself:
- One idea? → Simple
- Two ideas joined by FANBOYS? → Compound
- One idea + extra dependent info? → Complex
Let’s try some problems! ✍️
