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Grade 5 · Grammar · Sentence structure

5th Grade Simple, Compound and Complex Sentences worksheets

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Simple, Compound and Complex Sentences

Grade 5 Grammar Worksheet

NameDate

Is each sentence simple, compound or complex? Circle the answer.

  1. Mia and Ben ran across the field.

    • simple
    • compound
    • complex
  2. Mia sang, and Ben played the drums.

    • simple
    • compound
    • complex
  3. Because the bus was late, we missed the start of the movie.

    • simple
    • compound
    • complex
  4. The tired hikers rested under a large tree.

    • simple
    • compound
    • complex
  5. The sun came out, and the snow began to melt.

    • simple
    • compound
    • complex
  6. We went inside when the rain started.

    • simple
    • compound
    • complex
  7. After lunch, the class walked to the library.

    • simple
    • compound
    • complex
  8. We painted the fence, and Dad mowed the lawn.

    • simple
    • compound
    • complex
  9. Although it was cold, the children played outside.

    • simple
    • compound
    • complex
  10. Dad packed apples, grapes and crackers for the trip.

    • simple
    • compound
    • complex
  11. The girls cleaned the room, and the boys washed the dishes.

    • simple
    • compound
    • complex
  12. Mia fed the dog before she left for school.

    • simple
    • compound
    • complex
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5th Grade Simple, Compound and Complex Sentences worksheet 1 – printable PDF
Download PDF: 123456

About this worksheet

A simple sentence has one complete thought. A compound sentence joins two complete thoughts with a comma and a word like 'and', 'but', 'or' or 'so'. A complex sentence has one complete thought and one part that cannot stand alone, which starts with a word like 'because', 'when', 'although' or 'after'.

On this fifth grade sheet a child reads twelve sentences, four of each kind, and circles simple, compound or complex for each. Each version uses different sentences, and the answer key gives the type of every one.

What your child will learn

  • Count the complete thoughts
  • Spot a joining word and a comma
  • Find the part that cannot stand alone
  • Name the sentence type

Common Core standard: L.5.1

Worked example

'The rain started, so we went inside' is compound: two complete thoughts joined by a comma and so. 'Because the rain started, we went inside' is complex.

Common mistake

Calling a sentence compound just because it has the word 'and' or a comma, when it has only one complete thought.

Helpful hint

Can each part stand alone? Two that can: compound. One that can and one that cannot: complex. Only one part: simple.

Questions parents ask

What is the most common mistake with simple, compound and complex sentences?

Calling a sentence compound just because it has the word 'and' or a comma, when it has only one complete thought.

How can I help my child with simple, compound and complex sentences?

Can each part stand alone? Two that can: compound. One that can and one that cannot: complex. Only one part: simple.

Are these 5th grade grammar worksheets free to print?

Yes. All 6 printable versions on this page are free to download and print, with no account needed.

Similar: Subjects and Predicates · Fragments and Run-On Sentences

More 5th grade sentence structure

See all sentence structure

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