A complex sentence is made up of one independent clause, which can stand alone as a complete thought, and at least one dependent clause that cannot. The dependent clause is used to provide further details, explanations, or examples related to the main idea expressed in the independent clause.
For example, in the sentence:
The independent clause is we decided to go for a walk, and the dependent clause is although it was hot outside, providing the context.
Complex sentences are easily identified by the presence of subordinating conjunctions like, because, since, or until that connect the clauses.
Complex sentences are categorised as one of the four types of sentences based on structure: simple, complex, compound, and compound-complex. The defining feature of complex sentences is the inclusion of a dependent clause; only complex and complex-compound sentences contain these. A dependent clause, also known as a subordinate clause, lacks the ability to stand alone as a complete sentence.
Conditional sentences are a common form of complex sentence that discuss hypothetical scenarios using an if-then structure. In such sentences, both clauses must be true for the entire statement to hold true. Maya Angelou once said, If you’re always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be.
Understanding the distinction between independent and dependent clauses is crucial when constructing complex sentences. Independent clauses can function as standalone sentences while dependent clauses cannot. The key difference lies in the use of subordinating conjunctions at the beginning of dependent clauses, which transform them from independent entities into reliant components within a sentence structure.
You may be familiar with common subordinating conjunctions like because, since, if, until, when, even though, in case, while, now that, as well as certain uses of the prepositions before and after. WRITERS AT WORK students will have their fair share of practice and opportunities to employ all these conjunctions in their English composition writing, whether they may be tackling PSLE or O Level examinations.
When a clause is introduced by a subordinating conjunction, it serves to describe another clause. Consequently, dependent clauses alter the meaning of independent clauses.
The distinction between simple and complex sentences is relatively straightforward. A simple sentence consists of just one independent clause; any sentence with more than one clause (such as a complex sentence) cannot be considered simple. It’s worth noting that two simple sentences can sometimes be combined into one complex sentence if they are logically connected and a subordinate conjunction is used.
Example of a simple sentence:
Creative writing is good for children as it teaches them how to use their imagination. Children have a vivid imagination and will enjoy coming up with different storylines and characters. Through the use of creative writing, children can express themselves using the English language, which is also good for their emotional development and maturity.
A good start is to write about what you know. Students can start by writing about things that are familiar to them, such as school or family. Then, students can move on to more complex topics, requiring them to use their imagination about events which would be unlikely to happen in real life, such as a fairytale or an adventure story. Older students can write descriptive essays about being in a situation or about more abstract concepts, such as regret.
A good story should have just the right amount of exposition to illuminate the setting and the characters for the reader without giving away the entire plot. The story should begin where it is relevant, and the general gist of the situation should be outlined. The writer should know how to move the plot along from where they start easily, and the story should flow logically.
A good first step would be to plan out the story – it is important that the story follows a Plot Curve which has a logical sequence of events and a clear conclusion. The main and supporting characters should be clear – there should not be a whole village of characters – just enough to further the plot. Moreover, the central conflict of the story should be clear.
