Grammar Mini-Lesson: Compound Sentences

Compound Sentences You can combine two sentences by creating a compound sentence. A compound sentence contains two or more independent clauses. The independent clauses are usually joined by a comma and a conjunction (think FANBOYS). Sometimes a semicolon (;) is used to join compound sentences. A semicolon (;) and a conjunctive adverb can also be used. Before linking two thoughts in a compound sentence, make sure that the thoughts are clearly related and equal in importance. Examples: Leslie will sing in the talent show, and we expect her to win first place. Leslie is scheduled to sing in the talent show, but she has strep throat. Leslie is not singing in the talent show; I will take her place. Leslie has strep throat; consequently, I will take her place in the talent show.

FANBOYS These are the seven coordinating conjunctions. A conjunction is a joiner, a word that connects (conjoins) parts of a sentence.

Sentence Combining Examples Combine two simple sentences that are related by making one compound sentence. Add a comma + conjunction between them. Examples: ◦ Leslie will sing in the talent show. We expect her to win first place. ◦ Leslie will sing in the talent show, and we expect her to win first place. ◦Joe camped with his Boy Scout troop. They had to come home early. ◦Joe camped with his Boy Scout troop, but they had to come home early. ◦Aaron draws very well. He was selected to enter the poster contest. ◦Aaron draws very well, so he was selected to enter the poster contest.

Using a Semicolon We can join two closely related independent clauses by using a semicolon. Make sure that there is an independent clause on both sides of the semicolon. A common mistake is to place a fragment to the right of the semicolon.  Incorrect: It might rain next weekend, though; so I might have to stay inside. Correct: It might rain next weekend, though, so I might have to stay inside. Correct: It might rain next weekend, though; I might have to stay inside.

Conjunctive Adverbs When the job of an adverb is to connect ideas, we call it a conjunctive adverb. Here is a partial list: accordingly also besides consequently conversely finally furthermore hence however indeed instead likewise meanwhile moreover nevertheless next nonetheless otherwise similarly still subsequently then therefore thus

Conjunctive Adverbs A conjunctive adverb can join two main clauses. In this situation, the conjunctive adverb behaves like a coordinating conjunction, connecting two complete ideas. Notice, however, that you need a semicolon, not a comma, to connect the two clauses: Like this: Main Clause + ; + Conjunctive Adverb + , + Main Clause. Here are two examples: The dark skies and distant thunder dissuaded Clarice from her afternoon run; moreover, she had thirty calculus problems to solve for her morning class. Leon's apartment complex does not allow dogs over thirty pounds; otherwise, he would have bought the gangly Great Dane puppy playing in the pet store window.

Sentence Combining Exercises Combine the following simple sentences to form compound sentences. Use a conjunctive adverb for one of them. Osvaldo plays tennis. He sings in the choir. Lyndsie ran to make it to class on time. She got there too late. The cat knocked over a lamp. The dog chewed up my shoe. It's helpful to put your goals in writing. You must also be committed to achieving them. My sister seldom goes to bed before midnight. She's tired and falls asleep frequently in class.