Compound sentences — English writing skills for kids
A compound sentence is two simple sentences joined as equals. Each part — a main clause — has its own subject and verb and could stand alone. The joining word (a coordinating conjunction) shows how the two ideas are linked.
Two clauses, equal partners — “a compound sentence joins two main clauses with and, but, or, so, yet or a semicolon”
Check for two main clauses: “The test was hard” and “Zoya got full marks” could each be a sentence on its own.
Choose the joining word by meaning: and adds a similar fact, but / yet show a contrast or surprise, or gives a warning or a choice, so shows a result. Put a comma before it.
Or join two closely linked main clauses with a semicolon: The bell rang; the children ran out. A comma alone cannot join them.
Use it for: Writing longer, linked sentences in compositions, and “join using a conjunction” exercises in Class 6–9.
Worked example: Choose the right joining word for the gap: → but
The sentence: The test was hard, ___ Zoya got full marks.
Full marks in a hard test is a surprise — a contrast. A contrast takes “but”: The test was hard, but Zoya got full marks. (“so” would say the hard test caused the full marks; “or” gives a choice.)
Check: Cover the joining word: “The test was hard.” “Zoya got full marks.” — two full sentences ✓
Read every choice carefully, then tap the one that is written correctly. Stuck? Press “Show me how”.
Right: 0 · Tried: 0
🏁 Lesson 26 test
20 questions. Check each answer, then go to the next one. Get 16 or more right to pass.
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