Learn about simple and complex sentences


Simple sentences deal with one idea and have a finite verb. A finite verb can stand on its own. A finite verb: has a subject, a tense, and is singular or plural.


Complex sentences contain one or more main ideas. They are joined by subordinate conjunctions, e.g. while, after, although, unless, though. These conjunctions show that extra information will follow.


1 Copy the following complex sentences and fill in the missing conjunctions. a You won’t get a certificate ____ you read five books. b You can watch TV _____ you have done some exercise.


c Eat healthy food and get enough exercise ____ you want to live a long and healthy life.


2 Use the conjunction “although” to join the following simple sentences to form complex sentences. a Sitting on the couch all day is easy. Playing sports is healthier for you.


b It is good to relax and enjoy a TV show. It is better to relax by doing something active.


c It is good to be active. It is acceptable to watch TV when you are tired.


Conjunctions are usually found in the middle of sentences but sometimes certain conjunctions may be used to begin a sentence. A comma is used to separate the main thought from the extra information, e.g. Although sitting on the couch all day is easy, playing sports is healthier for you.


3 Rewrite the sentences in question 2 by starting with the conjunction “although”.


SUPPORT TASK:


Discuss as a class why the clauses other than the main clause are called subordinate clauses in complex sentences.


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