Complex Complex SentencesSentences

Using a Complex Using a Complex Sentence as a Sentence as a Transitional Transitional

Device will add Device will add Sentence FluencySentence Fluency,, OrganizationOrganization, , and and MaturityMaturity to your to your

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Complex Complex SentencesSentences

Complex Sentences Complex Sentences as as

Transitional DevicesTransitional Devices

A subordinate clause begins with a subordinating conjunction and is followed by a subject and a verb.

Although Kayleigh broke her foot

because I didn’t go to bed

A subordinate clausedoes NOT make sense by itself.

Complex Sentence Review

ANY sentence with a subordinate clause is a complex sentence even if the subordinate clause comes after the independent clause (complete sentence).

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IMPORTANT: You need to be able to recognize

subordinating conjunctions.

afterafter

althougalthoughh

asas

becausebecause

even thougheven though untiuntill

beforebefore

sincesince

so thatso that

unlessunless

whenwhen

whilewhile

Complex Complex SentencesSentences

Complex Complex SentencesSentences

Complex Sentences as

Transitional Devices.

Instead of a transitional word, use a complex sentence.

When using a complex sentence as a transitional device, make sure the subordinate clause is at the beginning of the sentence.

Using a complex sentence to move from paragraph to paragraph adds maturity to your writing.Complex sentences can also replace a justifier transition.

Use a combination of complex sentences and transitions throughout your essay.

Complex Complex SentencesSentences

Example of Complex Sentences used as

Transitions

Because individual customers have a choice where to eat, they are responsible for problems with obesity. People have the ability to choose to go to Nami Japanese Restaurant and eat fresh sushi, or they can cross the street, go to Pizza Hut, and get a greasy pepperoni pizza. A majority of Americans would choose to go get the pizza. For example, once I was with a friend and his family after we had seen a movie, and everyone was debating where to go eat. I chose to stay neutral so that I didn’t get involved. At the end of it all, Pizza Hut won the competition. When consumers have the choice between healthy food choices and yummy fast food, they are going to choose the food that tastes better. Obviously, the consumers are responsible for problems with obesity.

Transition

Justifier Transition Justifier sentence

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Main Idea

Complex Complex SentencesSentences

Transition

Justifier Transition Justifier sentence

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Main Idea

Because consumers decide not to go home and make themselves a nice home cooked meal, they are at fault for the problems of obesity. Around six out of ten children get a nutrious meal from home, where they get to relax and have dinner with their family. Parents are usually strict about what their kids eat, up until the point when the kids get annoying and naggy. After too much whining, parents start to not care. Also, the parents might get into the habit of eating fast food as well, then it becomes a regular routine every day and that is how the problems begin. Although individuals are more responsible for problems with health and weight, this can be changed quite

easily with diet and exercise.

Example of Complex Sentences used as

Transitions

Complex Complex SentencesSentences

Transition

Justifier Transition

Justifier sentence

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Since Reality TV is unpredictable, many people enjoy watching it. One time my family and I were watching American Idol. Suddenly, someone ran on stage and started screaming. Everything was so hectic and crazy no one could predict what would happen next. Also, many shows have the audience help choose the winner such as in Dancing with the Stars, So You Think You Can Dance, and America’s Best Dance Crew. Research shows that millions of people voted for the last winner on American Idol. With so many people’s opinions added up, no one can predict what will happen next. Since Reality TV has no script, it leaves you wondering what will happen next. Evidently, with Reality TV you can never know what might occur next.

Example of Complex Sentences used as

Transitions

Complex Complex SentencesSentences

Transition

Justifier Transition

Justifier sentence

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Main Idea

After a rough day at school, it is always fun to watch the antics on Reality TV. “We’re not laughing at you,” my granny always says, “we’re laughing with you.” In other words, everyone enjoys laughing at someone who has done something humorous. One time my friend and I went to the local carnival. Singing wasn’t one of her best talents, but she wasn’t quite aware of that. We set her up for karaoke and laughed the night away. We all know deep down we love people being set-up in embarrassing situations. Because everyone enjoys people making fools out of themselves, Reality TV is a hit.

Example of Complex Sentences used as

Transitions