A simple sentence has one independent clause and no subordinate clauses.
Anindependent (or main) clauseexpresses a complete thought and can stand by itself as a sentence. Identify if the following sentences are simple.
Simple Sentence
not a Simple Sentence
I really enjoyed the movie.
The vase fell.
All the passengers seemed in a hurry
After the dance, we went to the diner.
Simple sentences can also have a compound subject, compound verb, or both. In the following simple sentences, identify if they contain a compound subject, compound verb, or both.
My mom worked and graduated college last year.
Emily and Joe went to the store and bought flowers.
Becca and Damian ate lunch and then watched a movie.
Steve ran and lifted weights after school.
Mom, dad, and the kids ate popcorn and candy.
The previews and commercials were at the beginning.
Compound subject
Compound verb
Both
Compound sentences have two independent clauses. Identify if the following sentences are compound.
We're getting ready to leave, so please come with us.
Compound
Not compound
Complex sentences have one independent clause and one subordinate clause.
Identify if the following sentence is complex.
We might stop for pizza after the movie is over.
Complex
Not complex
Identify if the sentence is complex or compound.
They drove to the theater after they picked up Jenny.
Complex
Compound
Identify if the sentence is complex or compound.
John worked on the car, and I helped with the tires.
Complex
Compound
Identify if the sentence is complex or compound.
The puck flew; the buzzer sounded, and the game was over.