Printable Simple, Compound and Complex Sentences Worksheets
Printable simple, compound and complex sentences worksheets for 3rd through 5th grade, with an answer key on every sheet. The sets below cover 3 different skills, so you can start where your child actually is. Available as word problems and sorting activities.
Targeted Practice by Skill
About Simple, Compound and Complex Sentences
What this skill is
Sentences are categorized by structural clause complexity: simple sentences contain one independent clause; compound sentences join two independent clauses with a comma and coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS); complex sentences join an independent clause with a dependent clause using a subordinating conjunction (because, although, if). Solvers master clause identification, conjunction choice, sentence structure analysis, clause combining, complex sentence formation, and sentence combining across narrative drafting and essay composition.
When children learn it
Simple sentences and basic compound sentences (joined by and, but, or) are introduced in 2nd grade and 3rd grade. In 4th grade and 5th grade, students master complex sentences with subordinating conjunctions, introductory dependent clause punctuation, and sentence combining techniques across language arts units and essay writing.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing compound subjects or compound verbs inside a simple sentence with a true compound sentence (which requires two full clauses).
- Omitting the required comma before the coordinating conjunction in a compound sentence when joining two clauses.
- Forgetting to place a comma after an introductory dependent clause in a complex sentence (e.g., 'Because it rained, we stayed inside').