What is a Complex Sentence? A complex sentence is a sentence that has one main (independent) clause and at least one subordinate (dependent) clause. Example: Because it was raining, we stayed indoors. "Because it was raining" = subordinate clause "We stayed indoors" = main clause How to Teach Complex Sentences 1. Review Clauses Main/Independent Clause: Can stand alone as a sentence. Subordinate/Dependent Clause: Cannot stand alone; needs the main clause. 2. Introduce Complex Sentences Explain that complex sentences combine these two types of clauses to show a relationship (reason, time, condition, etc.). 3. Subordinating Conjunctions Teach common subordinating conjunctions: because, although, since, if, when, while, after, before, unless, etc. 4. Structure The subordinate clause can come first or second in the sentence. If the subordinate clause comes first, use a comma. If the main clause comes first, no comma is needed. Ex...