Question 1: Identify one compound-complex sentence in the passage and underline it.

Answer: The sentence starting with 'Despite the rain pouring down steadily...' is a compound-complex sentence.

Question 2: List the main independent clauses in the first compound sentence.

Answer: ‘Maria decided to continue her hike’ and ‘she believed the clouds wouldn't last long’.

Question 3: What conjunctions are used in the sentence you identified? Provide their names.

Answer: ‘Despite’, ‘because’

Question 4: Annotate the sentence, highlighting the dependent and independent clauses.

Answer: See full answer key

Question 5: Explain how the use of conjunctions in the passage contributes to the complexity of the sentences.

Answer: Conjunctions like 'despite' and 'because' connect clauses, creating a more sophisticated and detailed sentence structure.

Question 6: Identify any techniques used to add emphasis or sophistication to the sentences.

Answer: Use of subordinate clauses and coordinating conjunctions enhances sentence complexity.

Question 7: Select the best paraphrase of the first sentence: A) Maria hiked despite the rain because she thought it would stop soon. B) Maria decided to hike even though it was raining, believing the weather would improve. C) Maria postponed her hike due to the rain, as she was unsure about the weather. D) Maria's hike was delayed because of the rain, but she waited for it to clear.

Answer: b) Maria decided to hike even though it was raining, believing the weather would improve.

Question 8: Write your own complex sentence inspired by the passage, using at least one subordinate clause and a coordinating conjunction.

Answer: See full answer key