Writing sentences
Sentences provide us with the framework for the clear written expression of our ideas. Sentences are one of the key building blocks of written assignments. Let's explore the features of a sentence.
Sentence features
A sentence is a written expression of a complete thought.
A sentence contains:
- a capital letter at the beginning and a full stop at the end
- a subject (person/people or thing[s] that is/are doing something)
- a verb (action or doing word).
Example
Screen reader users, this text uses visual highlights to indicate different parts of a sentence. Each highlight is explained for your convenience.
C1Screen reader users, this is a Capital letter.limate change2Screen reader users, this is the subject. is3Screen reader users, this is part of a verb. adversely affecting3Screen reader users, this is part of a verb. the environment.4Screen reader users, this is a full stop.
Preventing run-on sentences
A run-on sentence occurs when two clauses or simple sentences are incorrectly joined.
This could be either:
- a fused sentence where two dependant clauses (incomplete ideas or sentences) are put together without the correct punctuation, or
- a comma splice where the two clauses are only joined with a comma.
Example
Poverty, famine and major public health problems around the developing world are important indicators of a changing climate these issues are not being addressed globally.
There are four ways to resolve a run-on sentence.
1. Use a joining word between the two clauses of the sentence so it makes sense. (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet)
Poverty, famine and major public health problems around the developing world are an important indicator of a changing climate but these issues are not being addressed globally.
2. Insert a semicolon between the two clauses of the sentence instead of a joining word
Poverty, famine and major public health problems around the developing world are an important indicator of a changing climate; these issues are not being addressed globally.
3. Make two separate sentences.
Poverty, famine and major public health problems around the developing world are an important indicator of a changing climate. These issues are not being addressed globally.
4. Rewrite the sentence if it's possible to link the two clauses as one complete idea
Important indicators of climate change such as poverty, famine and major public health problems in the developing world are not being addressed globally.
