Classifying Sentences According to Structure Complex, Compound-Complex Sentences

Complex Sentences A complex sentence has one independent clause and at least one subordinate (dependent) clause. A subordinate (dependent) clause does not express a complete thought and cannot stand alone.

#1 Whenever you want (to play ball), tell me. Yes- Complex

#4 You will get better if you just keep trying. Yes –Complex.

#7 When you compete, good attitudes count, too. Complex

#8 Some coaches are naturals; however, they must practice a great deal. NO!! COMPOUND!!!!!!!

# 9 Coaches like working with athletes who show courage. Complex

10. They also welcome team players, who they know are assets. Yes. Complex.

12. They can concentrate too much on themselves; moreover, they can become conceited about their own publicity. No. Not complex.

17. Athletics can teach much about life in general.

Compound –Complex Sentences A compound-complex sentence contains two or more independent clauses and at least one subordinate clause.

Example: Chess, which is a game of wit and skill, can be rewarding, but it can also be discouraging.

#7 He created stories that outlined the abuses (of child labor) (in graphic detail), but he was unable to abolish all of the abuses; despite the skill of his pen.

1. Whenever you want to play ball, (you)tell me. Dependent Clause Ind.

2. If you want to succeed in athletics, keep in shape. Complex

9. Coaches like working with athletes who show courage.

20. Some athletes retire at a young age because their injuries prevent them from playing. Yes. Complex.

Compound / Complex 5. The new laws that were passed forced employers to consider some of the children’s needs, but the laws left much to be desired. YES. Compound / Complex.

4. Eventually, public outrage protected these children. Simple : No.

7. He created stories that outlined the abuses of child labor in graphic detail, but he was unable to abolish all of the abuses, despite the skill ( of his pen). Compound, complex

9. When English citizens read Oliver Twist, for example, they began thinking about child labor laws, and some of them insisted on reform. Yes.

Classifying Examples: 1. When the sun came out, swimmers quickly returned to the water. Complex.

2. Give John another chance at tennis. Simple.

10. Far from the crowded theater stood the playwright –independent. The playwright who had written the successful musical. -dependent. Complex.

15. I remember the singing (of the birds), the smell (of pine trees), the rustle (of the soft breezes).