Lesson No 19C-Building More Complex Sentences Using Conjunctions

Coordinating conjunctions (FANBOYS) can be used to connect independent clauses. An independent clause is a complete sentence that can stand alone.

Example:

• I like to swim. (independent clause)
• I like to play tennis. (independent clause)
• I like to swim and play tennis. (combined sentence using “and”)

Subordinating conjunctions can be used to introduce dependent clauses. A dependent clause is a clause that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.

Example:

• Because it was raining, (dependent clause) we stayed inside. (independent clause)
• When I saw her, (dependent clause) I waved. (independent clause)

Here are some examples of more complex sentences using conjunctions:

• Although it was raining, (dependent clause) we decided to go for a walk. (independent clause)
• Not only is she smart, (dependent clause) but she is also kind. (independent clause)
• I like to swim, (independent clause) and (coordinating conjunction) my friends like to play basketball. (independent clause)

Would you like to practice building more complex sentences using conjunctions?

Certainly! Here are some more examples and practice exercises:

Examples:

• Although it was raining, (dependent clause) we decided to go for a walk. (independent clause)
• Not only is she smart, (dependent clause) but she is also kind. (independent clause)
• I like to swim, (independent clause) and (coordinating conjunction) my friends like to play basketball. (independent clause)
• Because it was late, (dependent clause) we decided to order pizza. (independent clause)
• Either you can study, (independent clause) or you can watch TV. (independent clause)

Practice Exercises:

1. Combine the following pairs of sentences using coordinating conjunctions:

• I like to swim. I like to play tennis.
• She studied hard. She didn’t pass the exam.
• I went to the store. I bought milk.

2. Combine the following pairs of sentences using subordinating conjunctions:

• It was raining. We stayed inside.
• I saw her. I waved.
• He studied hard. He passed the exam.

3. Create complex sentences using both coordinating and subordinating conjunctions:

• I like to swim, and my friends like to play basketball.
• Although it was raining, we decided to go for a walk because we wanted to get some exercise.

Would you like to try more exercises or do you have any other questions about conjunctions?