Lesson Overview

A sentence is a group of words that expresses a complete thought. Based on structure, sentences are classified according to the number and types of clauses they contain.

This lesson explains the four structural types of sentences in English Grammar:

1. Simple Sentence

A simple sentence contains only one main (independent) clause.

Examples:

  • I admit my fault.
  • The students arrived early.
  • Bola passed the examination.

2. Compound Sentence

A compound sentence contains two or more main clauses joined by coordinating conjunctions such as and, but, or, nor, for, yet, and so.

Examples:

  • We came and we conquered.
  • He studied hard, so he passed the examination.
  • The teacher spoke, but the students were silent.

3. Complex Sentence

A complex sentence contains one main clause and at least one subordinate clause.

Examples:

  • When I become a doctor, I will help people.
  • Because he was ill, he stayed at home.
  • If you study hard, you will succeed.

4. Compound-Complex Sentence

A compound-complex sentence contains at least two main clauses and at least one subordinate clause.

Examples:

  • When the rain stopped, we left the hall and we returned home.
  • Although he was tired, he continued reading and he completed the assignment.

Examination Tips

  • One main clause only = Simple Sentence
  • Two or more main clauses without a subordinate clause = Compound Sentence
  • One main clause + at least one subordinate clause = Complex Sentence
  • At least two main clauses + at least one subordinate clause = Compound-Complex Sentence

Learning Outcome

At the end of this lesson, students should be able to:

  • Identify main and subordinate clauses.
  • Distinguish between phrases and clauses.
  • Classify sentences according to structure.
  • Solve UTME, WAEC, NECO, and Post-UTME questions on sentence structure.
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