Section A: A simple sentence has only one main idea. A compound sentence is two simple sentences joined with a comma and conjunction. Decide if each sentence below is simple or compound.
1. Yesterday the track team ran laps around the track and practiced jumping hurdles.
2. It’s raining today, and we will have practice in the gym.
3. We had meatloaf and potatoes for dinner.
4. I will clear the table, and my brother will sweep.
5. Last night, it snowed.
6. I shoveled the sidewalk, and Dad cleared off the car.
7. I hope the snow doesn’t melt too soon.
8. Winter is the best season of the year.
9. My mom likes fall, and I like spring.
10. John is writing a book.
Section B: Decide whether or not a comma is needed. If you think the sentence needs a comma, write the word that comes just before the comma. If the sentence does not need a comma, write NO COMMA.
11. Today is Friday and tomorrow will be Saturday.
12. Tom rides his bike and mows the lawn on Saturday.
13. John and Mary are going to a movie.
14. They will get some popcorn and sit in the balcony.
15. John wants to see a mystery movie and Mary is hoping to watch a romance.
16. The sausage is spicy and the soda is cold.
17. Jeff wants biscuits and gravy.
18. This restaurant serves lunch and dinner.
Answers: 1. simple; 2. compound; 3. simple; 4. compound; 5. simple; 6. compound; 7. simple; 8. simple; 9. compound; 10. simple; 11. Friday, ; 12. NO COMMA; 13. NO COMMA; 14. NO COMMA; 15. movie, ; 16. spicy, ; 17. NO COMMA; 18. NO COMMA