AP Aussie Primary Academy

Year 4 · English · Grammar · Free Printable

Complex Sentences

Build complex sentences by combining main and subordinate clauses effectively.

English AC9E4LA06 Australian Curriculum-aligned

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Learning Intention

Students build complex sentences by combining main and subordinate clauses.

Australian Curriculum

Supports Year 4 English language learning. (AC9E4LA06)

Teacher Notes

Start with simple sentences and model how to add subordinate clauses using conjunctions.

Skills Practised

  • Identifying clauses
  • Using subordinating conjunctions
  • Building complex sentences
  • Sentence variety

Building Complex Sentences

A complex sentence combines a main clause with a subordinate clause. The subordinate clause adds information but does not express a complete idea on its own.

Build One Step by Step

  1. Start with a complete main clause, such as “The class went outside.”
  2. Add a reason, time or condition using a subordinating conjunction.
  3. Read the whole sentence aloud and check that the meaning is clear.
  4. Check punctuation and the order of the clauses.

Useful subordinating conjunctions include because, when, while, although and if.

Improve Your Writing

Try changing the position of the subordinate clause. Compare “Because it was raining, the class stayed inside” with “The class stayed inside because it was raining.” Both clauses contribute useful information.