Have a go at writing a simple and compound sentence to go with this picture.

WALT: Vary sentence structure

WILF: M – Know what a simple, compound and complex

sentence isS – Be able to write all three

C – Mix them up (vary them) to interest a reader

Adding variety to sentence structure

To make your writing more interesting, you should try to vary your sentences in terms of length

and structure.You can make some of your

sentences long and others short.

Read the two paragraphs on the next slide.

Read the paragraphs below. Choose the paragraph that is more effective.

I love living in the city. I have a wonderful view of the entire city. I have an apartment. I can see the Golden Gate Bridge. I can see many cargo ships pass under the bridge each day. I like the

restaurants in San Francisco. I can find wonderful food from just about every country. I don’t like

the traffic in the city.

I love living in the city of San Francisco. I have a wonderful view of the entire city from my apartment window. In

addition, I can see the Golden Gate Bridge under which many cargo ships pass each day. I also like San Francisco because I can find wonderful restaurants with food from

just about every country. However, I don’t like the traffic in the city.

You need to use a variety of sentences in your writing to get you a level 5 or above. There are 3 types of sentences you need to use:

-Simple Sentence-Compound Sentence-Complex Sentence

The simple sentence:

A simple sentence contains one main clause.

I live in San Francisco.

Write your own simple sentence based on the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.

Compound Sentences

A compound sentence contains two main clauses that are joined together.

He has a mountain bike, but he fancies a new one.

These two main clauses are joined by a

You can also make a compound sentence by joining two main clauses by

using a semi colon;The sea is a sparkling blue; it’s so inviting.

I love living in Middlesbrough; there are so many things to do.

Have a go at writing a simple and compound sentence to go with this

picture.

The buildings looked fantastic; they took my breath away. It was magnificent. I was very nervous being that high, but I knew I

was safe. I never wanted to go home!

Simple sentences

Compound sentences

Complex sentences

A complex sentence contains a main clause and a subordinate clause. A main clause makes sense on its own, (simple

sentence).A subordinate clause does not make

sense on its own, it is extra information added on for effect.

She wandered along the shore until she found a shell.

You only need to use a comma after a subordinate clause if it begins the

sentence.Moving back and forth, the gentle sea

swayed towards the shore.

Now you’re ready to practice what you’ve learnt. Write a paragraph

using simple, complex and compound sentences to describe

the images on the next slide.

Write a paragraph using simple, complex and compound sentences

Check to progress!

Read through your response to the taskCan you make any last minute improvements? 60s!

Exchange your book with a learning partner

Read through your partner’s response. Underline what you think is the most effective sentence.

Say what type of sentence it is and what you think makes it effective.

Return your books and read your feedback. WELL DONE!