We can write many sentences in two different ways.
Active:
We
spent
a lot of money.
subject
verb
object
Passive:
A lot of money
was
spent.
object
verb "Be"
past participle
We need to decide which type of sentence is best in each situation.
When the subject of the sentence is more important than the object, we use an active verb.
When the object of the sentence is more important than the subject, we use a passive verb.
Look at these sentences and decide which ones need to be changed.
Somebody founded ADBN Corporation in Detroit in 1912.
The poeple of India speak many different languages.
The Prime Minister is visiting China next month.
They will never discover a medicine to stop aging.
Passengers with small children may now board the aircraft.
We used to use mainly wood for building houses.
Office workers can use modern computers to do a variety of office tasks.
These days, some people have to use a calculator for even the most basic calculations.
Many people have criticized the US president for not signing the Kyoto agreement.
We haven't done many grammar exercices recently.
Compare your answers with other class members.
Discuss any sentences you are not sure about.
Use the space below to rewrite the sentences that do in fact need changing.