Syntax The manner in which a speaker or author constructs a sentence affects what the audience understands … syntax must be examined for its ability to contribute to and enhance meaning and effect.

Words to Describe Sent. Structure  Telegraphic Shorter than 5 words in length  Short Approximately 5-10 words in length  Medium Approximately 18 words in length  Long and involved 30 words or more in length

Sentence Patterns 1 One of the most important elements of syntax is the way the words, phrases, and clauses are arranged.  Declarative makes a statement The king is sick.  Imperative gives a command Cure the king!  Interrogative asks a question Is the king sick?  Exclamatory provides emphasis or expresses strong emotion The king is dead! Long live the king!

Sentence Patterns 2 One of the most important elements of syntax is the way the words, phrases, and clauses are arranged.  Simple Sentence contains one independent clause The singer bowed to her adoring audience.  Compound Sentence contains two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction or by a semicolon The singer bowed to the audience, but she sang no encores  Complex Sentence contains an independent clause and one or more subordinate clauses Because the singer was tired, she went straight to bed after the concert.

Sentence Patterns 3 One of the most important elements of syntax is the way the words, phrases, and clauses are arranged.  Compound-Complex sentence contains two or more independent clauses and one or more subordinate clauses The singer bowed while the audience applauded, but she sang no encores.  Loose or Cumulative sentence has the independent clauses come first; less important or supplementary details to follow. We reached Edmonton that morning after a turbulent flight and some exciting experiences, tired but exhilarated, full of stories to tell our friends and neighbors.  Periodic Sentence has the main idea come last, just before the period. That morning, after a turbulent flight and some exciting experiences, we reached Edmonton.

Syntax Questions  What is the effect of sentence length the author uses?  Is there a good variety of sentence beginnings, or does a pattern emerge?  Are the arrangement of ideas in a sentence set out in a special way for a purpose?  Arrangement in a paragraph?  Does a pattern emerge suggesting a particular strategy on the part of the author?