Complex Sentences

What is a Complex Sentence?

Today, let's dive into the world of complex sentences.A complex sentence is like a team where one player, the independent clause, takes the lead, and another, the dependent clause, provides additional information.

Defining the Basics:

• Independent Clause: This is the sentence superhero! It's a complete thought that can stand alone, with a subject and a predicate.
• Dependent Clause: Think of this as the sidekick. It has a subject and a predicate too, but it can't stand alone. It needs the independent clause to make a full sentence.
• Complex Sentence: When an independent clause and a dependent clause come together, you've got yourself a complex sentence.

How to Identify a Complex Sentence:

Time to put on our detective hats again and learn how to spot these complex sentences in the wild!

1. Look for Subordinating Conjunctions:

   • Words like "because," "although," "if," "since," "when," and "while" are the sidekick's signal. If one of these words introduces a clause that can't stand alone, it's a complex sentence.

     Example: Because it was raining, we decided to stay indoors.

2. Check for Dependent Clauses:

   • Keep an eye out for clauses that can't stand alone. If you spot one hanging out with an independent clause, you've found a complex sentence.

     Example: After we finished our homework, we went to the movies.

Examples of Complex Sentences:

Let's explore some examples to see complex sentences in action.

1. Using "because":
   • She couldn't go to the party because she had a family dinner.
2. Using "although":
   • Although it was late, they continued to play board games.
3. Using "if":
   • If you finish your chores, you can join us at the park.
4. Using "since":
   • Since the sun had set, we turned on the outdoor lights.
5. Using "when":
   • I'll call you when I reach the school gate.