Lesson 5: Classifying Sentences by Purpose

Definition

A declarative sentence makes a statement and ends with a period. An interrogative sentence asks a question and ends with a question mark.

Explanation

Think of it this way: declarative sentences declare or state a fact, like sharing information. Interrogative sentences, on the other hand, interrogate or ask something. One gives information and ends with a period; the other seeks information and ends with a question mark. It's the difference between telling and asking.

Examples

Declarative Sentences

• My uncle builds websites for a living. [statement]
• Somebody forgot to turn off the lights. [statement]

Definition

An imperative sentence makes a request or gives a command. Most imperative sentences end with a period. A strong command ends with an exclamation point.

Explanation

This type gives orders or makes requests! The key thing to remember is that the subject is almost always invisible—it’s the understood you. Even if you say someone's name to get their attention first, like 'David, help me,' the grammatical subject is still the implied (you).

Examples

• Please bring this form to the office. [request]
• Finish your homework before you watch TV. [command]
• Look out! [strong command]
• Ana, (you) please read the next paragraph aloud. [In this request, the subject is the understood you, not Ana.]