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Compound Sentences Facts & Worksheets

Compound sentence is a type of sentence consisting of two (or more) separate clauses connected by a coordinating conjunction or semicolon, as we learned in sentence construction.

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This type of sentence consists of two (or more) separate clauses connected by a coordinating conjunction or semicolon, as we learned in sentence construction. In other words, a compound sentence is created by combining two or more basic statements. Dependent clauses are not allowed in complex sentences.

See the fact file below for more information on compound sentences, or alternatively, you can download our 26-page Compound Sentences worksheet pack to utilize within the classroom or home environment.

Key Facts & Information

Examples of Compound Sentences

  • Sarah enjoys tea, whereas I enjoy coffee.
  • While Peter went to the party and I went home, Jane went to work.
  • Our automobile had a problem: We came last.
  • I spent all my savings, so I can’t attend my favorite K-POP idol concert this year. 
  • Dr. Real said I could come to his office on Monday or Saturday next week. 

Compound Sentence With Coordinating Conjunctions

  • Usually, we use one of the seven coordinating conjunctions to combine separate clauses. Although the phrase “coordinating conjunction” seems complicated, only seven are simple, one-syllable words: For—And—Nor—But—Or —Yet—So —. To remember them, use the mnemonic FANBOYS.
  • And, but, and or, in that order, are the three coordinating conjunctions used most frequently. Unless the phrases are brief, the coordinating conjunction must be preceded by a comma (,). (in which case, the comma is optional). 

FANBOYS

for

  • When the second sentence serves as the justification for the first clause, we link the two clauses with the conjunction, which roughly translates to “because,”
  • Example:  Anna felt cold for it was raining.

and

  • The most frequent conjunction is the one between and. We may use it for many things.
  • The conjunction “and” connects two sentences of equal importance, as Rome is in Italy, and London is in England.
  • When the second sentence follows the first clause, we use “and” to link the two clauses. For instance: There was a huge bang, and the lights went out.
  • When the second sentence follows from the first, we use “and” to link the two clauses, as in Johnny went to bed early, and the next day he felt better.

nor

  • When the first phrase contains a negative word like neither or never, we employ the conjunction “nor” to connect the two alternative clauses. In this scenario, both clauses are false or do not happen.
  • For instance, Catherine never called him nor sent the letter. (Note the subject and auxiliary are reversed: did she.)

but

  • The “but” conjunction is used to present a sentence that contrasts with the one that comes before it.
  • Example: Helen rushed quickly but was unable to catch John.

or

  • To connect two alternative clauses, the “or” conjunction is used.
  • Example: Will Sally travel, or will Anna travel?

yet

  • The conjunction is comparable to “yet”. It means something like “but,” “but at the same time,” “nevertheless,” and “but despite this.”   The clauses are in contrast, just like with but.
  • Example: I’ve known Charlie for a very long time, yet I’ve never really understood him.

so

  • The “so” conjunction denotes “hence” or “because of this.” When the first clause is the cause of the second clause, we utilize this technique to combine the two clauses.
  • Example: Nancy was feeling sick, so she went to the doctor. 

Compound Sentence by Using a Semicolon

  • Occasionally, we use a semicolon to separate distinct clauses (;).

Compound Sentence Examples with a Semicolon

  • Come back tomorrow; I will see if the parcel has arrived.
  • I am happy to take over the role; I will do my best.
  • You can pay your loans online; We accept all major credit cards.
  • I only write nonfiction; I’ve never tried fiction.

Compound Sentence with Semicolons and Conjunctive Adverbs

  • Additionally, terms and phrases like additionally, yet, at least, and (conjunctive adverbs). In this instance, a semicolon (;) must come before the conjunctive adverb, and a comma must go after it (,).

Example of Compound Sentences with Semicolons and Conjunctive Adverbs

  • She exclusively uses bright colors when painting; she detests pastels completely.
  • She must work two jobs to support herself; at least, that was her excuse for being unable to join us.
  • Gina must pack the right gear for camping; a sleeping bag, for instance, will keep her warm.

Tips for Writing Compound Sentences

TIP 1: Each component of a compound sentence must stand alone as a whole sentence.

  • That means a subject and a verb are required for each part.
  • For instance, I desire the sporty red vehicle but will lease the practical blue vehicle.
  • The subjects and verbs in the previous sentence are highlighted in italics. Due to the presence of the matter “I” and the verb “desire,” the first half of the sentence is complete.
  • After the comma and coordinating conjunction (but), the second part of the phrase, which has the subject “I” and the verb “will lease,” is likewise a complete sentence.

TIP 2: It is impossible to join independent clauses using a comma alone.

  • Example: Bel drank coffee, Mary drank tea. (wrong) 

John drank coffee, and Mary drank tea. (correct)

Compound Sentence Examples in Quotes

  • Compound sentences are often used in both speech and writing. Here are some instances of compound statements used by renowned people:
  • In this present crisis, the government is not the solution to our problem; government is the problem- Ronald Reagan.

Compound Sentences Worksheets

This is a fantastic bundle that includes everything you need to know about compound sentences across 26 in-depth pages. These are ready-to-use Compound Sentences worksheets that are perfect for teaching students about compound sentence, which is a type of sentence consisting of two (or more) separate clauses connected by a coordinating conjunction or semicolon, as we learned in sentence construction.

Complete List of Included Worksheets

  • Compound Sentences Facts
  • Take a Guess
  • Completing Sentences
  • FANBOYS
  • FANBOYS II
  • Clauses
  • Imagine
  • Rules!
  • Diary
  • Acrostic Poem
  • Sentence Structure

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a compound sentence? 

This type of sentence consists of two (or more) separate clauses connected by a coordinating conjunction or semicolon, as we learned in sentence construction. In other words, a compound sentence is created by combining two or more basic statements. Dependent clauses are not allowed in complex sentences.

What are coordinating conjunctions?

And, but, and or, in that order, are the three coordinating conjunctions used most frequently. Unless the phrases are brief, the coordinating conjunction must be preceded by a comma (,). (in which case, the comma is optional).

Can we join independent clauses with coordinating conjunctions? 

Yes. Usually, we use one of the seven coordinating conjunctions to combine separate clauses. Although the phrase “coordinating conjunction” seems complicated, only seven are simple, one-syllable words: For—And—Nor—But—Or —Yet—So —. To remember them, use the mnemonic FANBOYS.

Can we join an independent clause with a semicolon? 

Occasionally, we use a semicolon to separate distinct clauses (;). One example is: Come back tomorrow; I will see if the parcel has arrived.

Give an example of a compound sentence with a semicolon and adjunctive adverb.

She exclusively uses bright colors when painting; she detests pastels completely.

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Use With Any Curriculum

These worksheets have been specifically designed for use with any international curriculum. You can use these worksheets as-is, or edit them using Google Slides to make them more specific to your own student ability levels and curriculum standards.

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