Clauses and Sentence Structure
Clause - is a group of words that has a subject and a predicate and is used as a part of a sentence
Two Types
Main Clause - has a subject and a predicate and can stand alone
The cast bowed, and the audience applauded. Subordinate Clause - has a subject and a predicate, but cannot stand alone
The cast bowed when the audience applauded.
The student who directed the play also took a bow.
Types of SentencesSimple - has only one main clause and no subordinate clause
Compound - has two or more main clauses and no subordinate clausesBobcats stalk. Bobcats and lynxes stalk.
Bobcats stalk, and lynxes pounce.
Bobcats stalk, lynxes pounce, but house cats slink.
Complex - has one main clause and one or more subordinate clausesSome areas become deforested because people need wood for fuel.
Compound-Complex - has more than one main clause and at least one subordinate clauses
Campers need fuel for cooking, but they should use a stove that requires wood.