PASSIVE VOICES

Summary

This video script focuses on teaching the use of process markers and passive voice in writing. It explains how to identify and use signal words such as 'firstly,' 'then,' 'next,' and 'finally' to describe processes clearly. The script also covers the difference between active and passive voice, with examples showing how passive constructions focus on the action rather than the actor. Additionally, it offers guidance on using imperative verbs and time signals when describing processes in instructional contexts, making it ideal for understanding and creating procedural descriptions.

Takeaways

• 😀 The script introduces the concept of process markers, which help guide readers through understanding a process step by step.
• 😀 Key signal words are highlighted for indicating the sequence of a process, such as 'firstly,' 'next,' 'then,' and 'finally.'
• 😀 Active voice is commonly used in casual conversation to show clear action and responsibility (e.g., 'Andy kicks the ball').
• 😀 Passive voice is often used in formal writing or when the actor is unknown or irrelevant (e.g., 'The car was stolen').
• 😀 The structure of passive voice requires transforming the object of an action into the subject of the sentence, followed by 'to be' and the past participle.
• 😀 The lesson emphasizes the three main rules for changing active sentences to passive ones: 1) switch the object to the subject, 2) add 'to be,' 3) use the past participle form of the verb.
• 😀 Different tenses (simple past, past continuous, past perfect, etc.) can be used in the passive voice with the appropriate form of 'to be' and the past participle.
• 😀 In passive voice, sometimes the doer of the action is omitted, but can be added using 'by' if necessary (e.g., 'The class was cleaned by them').
• 😀 The script explains how to describe a process, focusing on providing step-by-step instructions using signal words and imperative verbs like 'open' or 'turn off.'
• 😀 When describing a process, it is important to use imperative verbs (e.g., 'open,' 'close') instead of continuous forms to keep instructions clear and direct.

Q & A

What are process markers, and why are they important in describing processes?

Process markers are signal words or phrases that help guide the reader through a process, indicating the sequence of actions or steps. They are important because they make the process easier to understand and follow. Common examples include 'first', 'then', 'next', 'finally', etc.

What is the difference between active and passive voice?

In active voice, the subject performs the action (e.g., 'Andy kicks the ball'). In passive voice, the subject receives the action, and the doer of the action may or may not be mentioned (e.g., 'The ball is kicked by Andy'). Passive voice is often used when the doer is unknown or unimportant.

When should passive voice be used?

Passive voice is typically used in formal contexts, such as scientific writing or reports, where the focus is on the action rather than the actor. It is also useful when the doer of the action is unknown or irrelevant.

How does the passive voice structure differ across tenses?

In passive voice, the structure changes depending on the tense. For example, in simple past tense, 'The class was cleaned by them' is used, while in present perfect tense, 'The class has been cleaned by them' is used. Each tense follows a specific formula involving the verb 'to be' and the past participle of the main verb.

What are some common signal words used in describing processes?

Common signal words for describing processes include 'first', 'next', 'then', 'after', 'finally', and 'before'. These words help organize and clarify the steps in a process, making it easier for readers to follow.

What is the role of imperative verbs in describing processes?

Imperative verbs are used to give direct commands or instructions in process descriptions. Examples include 'open', 'close', 'press', and 'turn off'. These verbs help make the instructions clear and concise.

How does using the word 'finally' help in a process description?

'Finally' is used to signal the last step or conclusion of a process. It helps readers understand that the process is about to end, marking the final action or instruction.

Why might someone choose to use passive voice when they don't know the subject of the action?

Passive voice is used when the subject of the action is unknown or irrelevant. For example, 'The car was stolen yesterday' focuses on the action of the car being stolen, rather than who stole it.

How can understanding the use of signal words improve clarity in a process description?

Signal words help clearly mark the sequence of steps in a process. By using these words, writers can structure their descriptions logically, making it easier for readers to follow the flow of actions or instructions.

In what type of writing is passive voice most commonly used?

Passive voice is most commonly used in formal writing, such as scientific reports, news reports, and crime reports, where the focus is on the action or event rather than the person performing the action.