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Quizzes > High School Quizzes > English Language Arts

Compound Complex Sentence Practice Test

Improve sentence structure with hands-on practice

Difficulty: Moderate
Grade: Grade 10
Study OutcomesCheat Sheet
Colorful paper art promoting the Compound Complex Challenge, a dynamic English language arts quiz.

This 20-question quiz helps you practice compound-complex sentences so you can spot and build them with the right clause mix. Work through real sentence examples, learn to join independent and dependent clauses, and find weak spots before a grammar test.

Which of the following sentences is a compound sentence?
Because she enjoys reading, she buys books.
She enjoys reading, and he likes painting.
Although he likes painting, he remains quiet.
She enjoys reading but painting is challenging.
The sentence 'She enjoys reading, and he likes painting.' is a compound sentence because it contains two independent clauses joined by the coordinating conjunction 'and'. The other options include dependent clauses or lack proper punctuation.
What is a compound sentence?
A sentence that contains one independent clause.
A sentence that combines two independent clauses with a coordinating conjunction.
A sentence that uses a semicolon to link a clause.
A sentence with one independent clause and one dependent clause.
A compound sentence is formed by combining two independent clauses, usually connected by a coordinating conjunction with proper punctuation. This distinguishes it from simple or complex sentences that contain a single independent clause or a mix of clauses.
Identify the coordinating conjunction in the sentence: 'I wanted to go for a walk, but it started raining.'
but
and
or
although
In the sentence, 'but' is the coordinating conjunction linking two independent clauses. Coordinating conjunctions such as 'and', 'but', or 'or' are typically used to join independent clauses in compound sentences.
Which punctuation is correctly used in a compound sentence?
No punctuation is necessary between clauses.
A colon is used to separate independent clauses.
A semicolon must always replace a comma.
A comma before a coordinating conjunction joining two independent clauses.
A compound sentence typically requires a comma before the coordinating conjunction that joins two independent clauses. This punctuation rule helps clarify the sentence structure and separate the complete thoughts.
What is a complex sentence?
A sentence with two independent clauses.
A sentence that uses a comma to list items.
A sentence that contains one dependent clause and one independent clause.
A sentence without any punctuation.
A complex sentence is characterized by one independent clause accompanied by at least one dependent clause. This structure allows the sentence to express a complete thought while providing additional detail through the subordinate clause.
Identify the dependent clause in the sentence: 'Although it was raining, I went for a run in the park.'
it was raining
Although it was raining
I went for a run
in the park
The clause 'Although it was raining' is dependent because it begins with a subordinating conjunction and cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. The rest of the sentence forms the independent clause.
Which of the following sentences is a compound-complex sentence?
He likes swimming; she likes diving.
When the bell rang, the students left.
Although it was cold, we played outside, and we built a snowman.
She read a book and he wrote a letter.
Option C is a compound-complex sentence because it includes a dependent clause ('Although it was cold') along with two independent clauses ('we played outside' and 'we built a snowman') joined by a coordinating conjunction. The other sentences lack either the dependent clause or multiple independent clauses.
What punctuation correctly separates independent clauses in a compound sentence?
A comma followed by a coordinating conjunction.
No punctuation is needed.
A colon before the second clause.
Only a semicolon without a conjunction.
Independent clauses in a compound sentence are typically separated by a comma and a coordinating conjunction. This punctuation rule clarifies the separation of complete thoughts within the sentence.
Which sentence demonstrates proper use of a subordinating conjunction?
She danced, and she sang.
I stayed home because it was raining.
They went to the store, but it was closed.
He was tired, so he slept.
Option A uses the subordinating conjunction 'because' to connect the dependent clause with the independent clause, which is the correct usage. The other choices utilize coordinating conjunctions to connect independent clauses.
Select the sentence that is NOT a compound sentence.
I wanted to leave, and I informed you.
I wanted to leave, so I prepared to exit.
Although I wanted to leave, I decided to stay.
I wanted to leave, but I decided to stay.
Option B is a complex sentence because it begins with the dependent clause 'Although I wanted to leave' followed by one independent clause. The other sentences are compound sentences with two independent clauses joined by coordinating conjunctions.
Which conjunction is used to link two independent clauses in a compound sentence?
since
if
and
because
The coordinating conjunction 'and' is used to connect two independent clauses in a compound sentence. The other options are subordinating conjunctions that link dependent clauses to independent clauses.
Identify the error in the following compound sentence: 'He enjoys playing soccer, and he, loves basketball.'
Missing coordinating conjunction
Extra comma after the subject 'he'
Incorrect use of a semicolon
No error is present
The error in the sentence is the unnecessary comma after 'he', which disrupts the natural flow of the sentence. Removing this extra comma corrects the punctuation and aligns with standard rules for compound sentences.
In a compound-complex sentence, what role does a dependent clause serve?
It presents a complete thought by itself.
It functions as the main clause.
It separates two independent clauses.
It provides additional information that cannot stand alone.
In a compound-complex sentence, the dependent clause adds extra detail or context and cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. Its role is to modify or give additional information to one of the independent clauses.
Choose the correctly punctuated compound-complex sentence.
I finished my homework, and I reviewed my notes although I was tired.
Although I was tired I finished my homework, and I reviewed my notes.
Although I was tired, I finished my homework, and I reviewed my notes.
Although I was tired, I finished my homework and I reviewed my notes.
Option A correctly places a comma after the dependent clause and before the coordinating conjunction, resulting in a compound-complex sentence that contains two independent clauses and one dependent clause. The other options either omit necessary punctuation or misplace the dependent clause.
Which sentence contains both compound and complex structures?
Although it was raining, I stayed home, and I read a book.
I went to the store and bought milk.
She sings and dances.
I ran quickly as I missed the bus.
Option B is a compound-complex sentence because it includes a dependent clause introduced by 'Although' and two independent clauses joined by the coordinating conjunction 'and'. This structure combines both complex and compound elements, unlike the other options.
Which of the following best distinguishes a compound sentence from a complex sentence?
A compound sentence combines independent clauses with coordinating conjunctions, whereas a complex sentence includes a dependent clause connected by a subordinating conjunction.
A complex sentence has multiple subjects, while a compound sentence has one subject.
A compound sentence always uses more punctuation than a complex sentence.
There is no difference; both sentences are identical in structure.
Option A clearly differentiates the two: a compound sentence is made up of two or more independent clauses joined by coordinating conjunctions, whereas a complex sentence pairs an independent clause with at least one dependent clause using a subordinating conjunction. The other options provide incorrect or misleading descriptions.
In a compound-complex sentence, how is a dependent clause typically integrated?
It is used only as an introductory phrase.
It is integrated with an independent clause to give extra information, regardless of its position.
It stands alone as a complete sentence after a semicolon.
It serves as an essential modifier and is always placed at the beginning.
Dependent clauses in compound-complex sentences are flexibly placed and provide additional context or detail to the independent clauses. Option B correctly states that the dependent clause is integrated with an independent clause to enhance the sentence, regardless of its position.
Examine the following sentence and identify its structure: 'When the bell rang, the students rushed out, and the teacher locked the door.'
Compound-complex sentence
Compound sentence
Complex sentence
Simple sentence
This sentence contains a dependent clause ('When the bell rang') and two independent clauses ('the students rushed out' and 'the teacher locked the door') joined by a coordinating conjunction, which makes it a compound-complex sentence. The combination of these structural elements sets it apart from the other types.
Which of the following corrections improves the punctuation in this compound sentence: 'I want to travel the world but I haven't saved enough money'?
Insert a comma before 'but'
Replace 'but' with 'and'
Remove 'the world' for clarity
Add an exclamation mark at the end
Inserting a comma before the coordinating conjunction 'but' properly separates the two independent clauses in the compound sentence. This correction adheres to standard punctuation rules and enhances clarity.
How can a writer effectively vary sentence structure using compound and complex sentences?
By using compound sentences only to avoid dependency in clauses.
By mixing compound sentences with complex sentences to create rhythm and clarity.
By alternating between short simple sentences exclusively.
By writing lengthy sentences without any punctuation.
Mixing compound and complex sentences allows a writer to create a varied writing style that maintains both rhythm and clarity. This approach prevents monotonous sentence structures and provides flexibility in conveying nuanced ideas.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Identify and differentiate between compound and complex sentence structures.
  2. Apply appropriate conjunctions to form compound and complex sentences.
  3. Analyze the grammatical roles of clauses within compound-complex sentences.
  4. Create effective compound-complex sentences using proper punctuation.
  5. Evaluate sentence structure to enhance clarity and coherence.

Compound Complex Sentence Test Cheat Sheet

  1. Sentence Structures Overview - Dive into the four core sentence types - simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex - to give your writing flair and variety. Knowing each structure lets you craft clear, engaging sentences that keep readers hooked. Sentence Structure: Simple, Compound, and Complex Sentences
  2. Compound Sentences - A compound sentence links two independent clauses with a coordinating conjunction (remember FANBOYS!) or a semicolon, creating smooth connections between ideas. Mastering this gives your writing balance and flow. Understanding Sentence Structures: Simple, Compound, and Complex Sentences
  3. Complex Sentences - Complex sentences combine one independent clause with at least one dependent clause, using subordinating conjunctions like "because," "although," or "since." They're perfect for showing cause-and-effect or adding extra detail. Mastering Sentence Structures: A Comprehensive Guide to Simple, Compound, and Complex Sentences
  4. Compound-Complex Sentences - These heavyweight sentences blend two independent clauses with one or more dependent clauses for maximum depth. Use them to craft sophisticated arguments or vivid descriptions. Compound-Complex Sentence Structures
  5. Coordinating Conjunctions - Practice joining independent clauses with FANBOYS and get comma or semicolon placement just right. This skill ensures your compound sentences stay crisp and error-free. Building Compound and Complex Sentences
  6. Subordinating Conjunctions - Use subordinators like "while," "if," and "though" to introduce dependent clauses that show relationships between ideas. It's a fun way to add nuance and keep readers curious. Mastering Sentence Structures: A Comprehensive Guide to Simple, Compound, and Complex Sentences
  7. Punctuation in Compound-Complex Sentences - Learn to place commas before coordinating conjunctions and after introductory dependent clauses for clarity. Proper punctuation turns a tangled sentence into a polished masterpiece. Compound-Complex Sentence Structures
  8. Varying Your Sentences - Switch between simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex to keep your writing lively and unpredictable. A varied rhythm makes your work fun to read! Sentence Structure: Simple, Compound, and Complex Sentences
  9. Hands-On Practice - Reinforce your skills with exercises and worksheets that challenge you to identify and build each sentence type. Practice really does make perfect! Compound and Complex Sentences Differentiated Lesson Pack
  10. Review & Edit - Always proofread to catch run-ons and fragments, ensuring every sentence is clear and correct. A quick edit session can transform good writing into great writing! Sentence Structure: Simple, Compound, and Complex Sentences
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