Active and Passive Voice
Grade 7 · English Language Arts · Language and Grammar · Washington, USA
Lesson Summary
Understand when to use active voice and passive voice in your writing.
Explanation
In active voice, the subject performs the action: 'The dog chased the cat.' In passive voice, the subject receives the action: 'The cat was chased by the dog.' Active voice is usually clearer and more direct, so it is preferred in most writing. However, passive voice is useful when the doer of the action is unknown or unimportant, or when you want to emphasize the receiver of the action.
Practice Questions
Q1: Identify whether this sentence is active or passive: 'The cake was eaten by the children.'
Answer: Passive voice. The subject ('cake') is receiving the action rather than performing it.
Q2: Rewrite in active voice: 'The homework was completed by Maria.'
Answer: Maria completed the homework.
Q3: Give an example of when passive voice might be a better choice than active voice.
Answer: When the doer is unknown: 'The window was broken last night.' We do not know who broke it, so passive voice makes sense.
People Also Ask
What is Active and Passive Voice in Grade 7 English Language Arts?+
Active and Passive Voice is a lesson in the Language and Grammar chapter of Grade 7 English Language Arts. It is part of the Washington, USA school curriculum and covers key concepts that students need to understand at this level.
What grade level covers Active and Passive Voice?+
Active and Passive Voice is taught in Grade 7 as part of the English Language Arts curriculum in Washington, USA.
How can I help my child with Language and Grammar in English Language Arts?+
Start with the lesson summary and explanation on this page. Practice the questions provided, then use TutorTom for personalized, step-by-step help with Language and Grammar topics.