Declarative Sentence
A declarative sentence makes a statement or declaration. It's the most common type of sentence and ends with a period.
Key Takeaway: Declarative sentences tell us something and always end with a period.
What is a Declarative Sentence?
A declarative sentence is a type of sentence that makes a statement, provides information, or declares something. It's the most common sentence type in English and is used to share facts, opinions, or information.
Characteristics:
- Makes a statement or declaration
- Ends with a period (.)
- Can be positive or negative
- Usually follows subject-verb-object word order
- Most common sentence type in English
Examples of Declarative Sentences
The sun rises in the east.
Birds can fly.
She loves reading books.
The movie was entertaining.
Dogs are loyal animals.
The weather is beautiful today.
He doesn't like spicy food.
The library opens at 9 AM.
Flowers need water to grow.
The Earth orbits around the sun.
Types of Declarative Sentences
Simple Declarative Sentences
Contain one subject and one verb:
- The cat sleeps.
- She runs fast.
- He reads books.
Compound Declarative Sentences
Contain two or more independent clauses:
- The sun was shining, and the birds were singing.
- She studied hard, so she passed the test.
- He likes coffee, but she prefers tea.
Complex Declarative Sentences
Contain one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses:
- When it rains, the flowers grow.
- She will call you when she arrives.
- The book that I read was interesting.
Worksheet: Practice with Declarative Sentences
Complete each sentence to make it a proper declarative sentence:
1. The cat _____ on the windowsill.
Show Answer
Possible answers: sits, sleeps, watches, rests
2. _____ is my favorite color.
Show Answer
Possible answers: Blue, Red, Green, Purple (any color)
3. The library _____ at 5 PM.
Show Answer
Possible answers: closes, shuts, ends, finishes
4. Birds _____ in the sky.
Show Answer
Possible answers: fly, soar, glide, travel
5. The movie _____ very entertaining.
Show Answer
Possible answers: was, is, seemed, looked
Tips for Writing Declarative Sentences
Always end with a period
Declarative sentences must end with a period, not an exclamation mark or question mark.
Use clear subject-verb structure
Make sure your sentence has a clear subject and verb to make a complete statement.
Be specific and clear
Make your statements specific and clear so readers understand exactly what you mean.
Vary sentence length
Mix short and long declarative sentences to keep your writing interesting and readable.