Connecting ideas within sentences by combining clauses.

Combine clauses in a few basic ways (e.g., creating compound sentences using and, but, so; creating complex sentences using because) to make connections between and to join ideas (e.g., I want to read this book because it describes the solar system).

Combine clauses in a growing number of ways to create compound and complex sentences that make connections between and link concrete and abstract ideas, for example, to express a reason (e.g., He stayed at home on Sunday in order to study for Monday's exam) or to make a concession (e.g., She studied all night even though she wasn't feeling well).

Combine clauses in a variety of ways to create compound and complex sentences that make connections between and link concrete and abstract ideas, for example, to make a concession (e.g., While both characters strive for success, they each take different approaches through which to reach their goals.), or to establish cause (e.g., Women's lives were changed forever after World War II as a result of joining the workforce).