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sentence types
There are four sentence types: declarative, imperative, interrogative, and exclamative.
declarative
Declarative sentences presents a message as factual and objective.
imperative
Often commands or orders.
Often starts with a verb.
Close the door.
Please pass the salt.
interrogative
Often used as questions.
What is the time?
Would you mind passing me the salt? (this sentence is an implied imperative.)
exclamative
Often used as an exclamation.
Often ends in an exclamation mark.
sentence structures
There are five sentence structures: simple, compound, complex, compound-complex, and fragment.
simple sentences
A simple sentence contain only one independent clause.
Example: The functions in the English language study design are Jacobson’s six functions of language.
Example: The big hairy spider ate the very powerful witch.
compound sentences
A compound sentence contains two or more independent clauses, often joined by a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS).
Example: Bring your textbook to class and pay attention.
complex sentences
A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause under a subordinating conjunction.
Example: If you want to win, you must study hard while managing your time.
compound complex sentences
A compound complex sentence contains at least three clauses and has both coordinating and subordinating clauses.
Example: While the oven is preheating, stir the eggs and add sugar.
Example: Make sure you bring your textbook to class and pay attention.
sentence fragment
Lacks a complete clause.
Example: Wow.
Example: Not sure.
Example: Make bed.