In my work with pre-teens and teenagers I have found working on complex sentences sounds scary, is possible, and makes a HUGE difference.
What are complex sentences? Complex sentences tell us more; they connect two ideas together. These students use linking words called subordinating conjunctions. Some examples of these linking words are: although, before, while, and because.
WHY use complex sentences? When speaking and writing, complex sentences help to add depth and maturity to your communication. Understanding complex sentences is vital to navigating a school day.
Teachers and text books use complex sentences ALL the TIME.
"After you finish with your work, please begin quiet reading."
"I need all tests turned in before you head out to recess."
"Even though all cells have a cell membrane, only plant cells have a cell wall."
"It couldn't compete with the transcontinental railroad although the pony express was effective at delivering mail,."
Do you see how each of these sentences connects two different ideas? The key to understanding HOW the sentences are connected is understanding that bold linking word.
How can we work on these kinds of sentences with our kids? I love to use topics kids are learning about in school, talking about what they are learning, prepping for assignments, working on projects, and studying for tests are all great times to pull in linking words.
Learning about the water cycle? Use words like: first, after, because, and until.
"After the water evaporates, water droplets condense into clouds."
Comparing two characters in a book? Use words like: whereas, even though, however, and similarly. "Harry does well in Defense Against the Dark Arts, whereas Hermione excels in all her classes."
Here is a list of words you can be thinking of when talking and studying with your kids. My biggest suggestion, pick two related ideas and connect them together with a linking word.
*Image is from: Mrs. Samaddar's Website
What are complex sentences? Complex sentences tell us more; they connect two ideas together. These students use linking words called subordinating conjunctions. Some examples of these linking words are: although, before, while, and because.
WHY use complex sentences? When speaking and writing, complex sentences help to add depth and maturity to your communication. Understanding complex sentences is vital to navigating a school day.
Teachers and text books use complex sentences ALL the TIME.
"After you finish with your work, please begin quiet reading."
"I need all tests turned in before you head out to recess."
"Even though all cells have a cell membrane, only plant cells have a cell wall."
"It couldn't compete with the transcontinental railroad although the pony express was effective at delivering mail,."
Do you see how each of these sentences connects two different ideas? The key to understanding HOW the sentences are connected is understanding that bold linking word.
How can we work on these kinds of sentences with our kids? I love to use topics kids are learning about in school, talking about what they are learning, prepping for assignments, working on projects, and studying for tests are all great times to pull in linking words.
Learning about the water cycle? Use words like: first, after, because, and until.
"After the water evaporates, water droplets condense into clouds."
Comparing two characters in a book? Use words like: whereas, even though, however, and similarly. "Harry does well in Defense Against the Dark Arts, whereas Hermione excels in all her classes."
Here is a list of words you can be thinking of when talking and studying with your kids. My biggest suggestion, pick two related ideas and connect them together with a linking word.
*Image is from: Mrs. Samaddar's Website
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