Simple SentencesENGL 120 - Unit 2-1

What is a simple sentence?A simple sentence is one independent

clause. This means it must have a subject, a main verb, and it must be a complete idea. It can be a positive or

negative statement or question.

The SubjectThe subject is what the sentence is

about. The subject is sometimes singular and sometimes plural

Examples- The flood damaged most of the buildings in New Orleans. (singular subject)- My neighbours make a lot of noise. (plural subject)

➔ Subjects are usually one word only, but they can be two or more words together. These are called compound subjects.

Examples My brother and I are both teachers. The new appliances and furniture might

arrive tonight.

The VerbThe main verb is an action or a state. It

also has a tense.Examples

The washing machine in my apartment broke. (past tense)

Students are nervous about tomorrow's exam. (present tense)

➔ A sentence can have more than one verb. This is called a compound verb.

Examples I woke up and cooked breakfast

before school.

Word OrderSome sentences have complicated word order. In most sentences, the

subject comes before the verb, but not always. For example, when we start a

sentence with here or there, the subject comes after the verb:

Examples

There were several new students in my class on Tuesday.

Here is your homework for the weekend.