Introduction to Sentence Structure
Sentence structure refers to how words are organized to form meaningful sentences. A complete sentence typically contains two main parts: a subject and a predicate.
Subject: This is who or what the sentence is about.
Predicate: This tells us what the subject does or what happens to it.
What is a Sentence?
A sentence is a group of words that expresses a complete thought. It conveys information, asks a question, gives a command, or expresses an emotion.
Characteristics of a Complete Sentence
1. Must Express a Complete Thought
A complete sentence should convey a clear idea or message.
2. Contains a Subject and a Predicate
A complete sentence must have two essential components:
Components Of A Sentence
Tells who or what the sentence is about.
Tells what the subject does.
- The cat sleeps.
- The teacher teaches.
Receives the action of the verb.
- She read the book.
- He gave her a gift.
Declarative Sentences
A declarative sentence makes a statement or provides information. It conveys an idea, fact, or opinion and is the most common type of sentence in English.
1. Expresses a Statement
Declarative sentences present information without asking a question or giving a command.
Examples
The sky is blue.
I enjoy reading books.
2. Ends with a Period
A declarative sentence always ends with a period (.).
3. Can Be Affirmative or Negative
Declarative sentences can express positive statements or negative ones.
Interrogative Sentences
An interrogative sentence asks a question and seeks information or clarification. This type of sentence is essential for engaging in conversations and obtaining answers.
1. Asks a Question
Interrogative sentences are designed to elicit information from the listener or reader.
2. Begins with a Question Word or Auxiliary Verb
These sentences often start with words like who, what, where, when, why, or how, or they may begin with an auxiliary verb (helping verb).
3. Ends with a Question Mark
An interrogative sentence always ends with a question mark (?).
Imperative Sentences
An imperative sentence gives a command, instruction, or request. It directs someone to do something and can be either polite or forceful.
1. Gives a Command or Instruction
Imperative sentences tell someone to perform a specific action.
Examples
Close the door.
Please pass the salt.
2. Subject Is Often Implied
The subject of an imperative sentence is usually understood to be "you," even if it is not stated.
Examples
(You) Sit down.
(You) Listen carefully.
3. Ends with a Period or Exclamation Mark
An imperative sentence can end with a period (.) for a mild command or an exclamation mark (!) for a strong command.
Exclamatory Sentences
An exclamatory sentence expresses strong emotion or excitement. It conveys feelings such as joy, surprise, anger, or frustration, and emphasizes the sentiment being conveyed.
1. Expresses Strong Emotion
Exclamatory sentences are used to convey powerful feelings or reactions.
2. Begins with "What" or "How"
Many exclamatory sentences start with the words "what" or "how," highlighting the emotion being expressed.
3. Ends with an Exclamation Mark
An exclamatory sentence always ends with an exclamation mark (!).