The Passive

Forming the Passive Voice – Present Simple
Description: Here, we’ll delve into the formation of passive sentences in the present simple tense. We’ll explain how to identify and use the auxiliary verb “to be” and the past participle to create passive constructions. Examples will illustrate this clearly.

Explanation:

• In the present simple tense, passive sentences are formed by using the auxiliary verb “to be” in the present tense followed by the past participle of the main verb.
• Formula: [Subject] + [Present tense of “to be”] + [Past participle of the main verb]
• Example: “The letter is sent every Monday.” In this example, “The letter” is the subject, “is” is the present tense of “to be,” and “sent” is the past participle of the main verb “send.”

• How to Use Present Simple Passive Voice (20%):
  • The present simple passive voice is used when we want to describe actions that are regularly performed, general truths, or routines.
  • Example 1: “The office is cleaned every evening.” (Routine)
  • Example 2: “English is spoken worldwide.” (General truth)
• Practice Exercises:
  • Let’s practice forming passive sentences in the present simple tense. Rewrite the following sentences in the passive voice:
    1. They deliver the mail every morning.
    2. We prepare breakfast in the kitchen.
    3. He teaches English to the students.
    4. She designs beautiful dresses.
    5. They repair cars at the garage.
• Examples:
  • Here are a couple more examples for clarity:
    • Active: “They deliver the mail every morning.”
      • Passive: “The mail is delivered every morning by them.”
    • Active: “We prepare breakfast in the kitchen.”
      • Passive: “Breakfast is prepared in the kitchen by us.”

Now that you understand how to form passive sentences in the present simple tense, practice using them to convey clear and precise information. Move on to the exercises to reinforce your learning.

Readings

Title: “The Factory Tour”

Every year, our school organizes a field trip to a local chocolate factory. The factory tour is guided by the enthusiastic staff. During the tour, we are shown the various stages of chocolate production.

First, the cocoa beans are harvested in different parts of the world. Then, they are transported to the factory where they are cleaned and sorted. Next, the cocoa beans are roasted to bring out their rich flavors.

The roasting process is followed by grinding the beans into a fine powder. This powder is mixed with other ingredients to create the delicious chocolate base. The mixture is poured into molds and left to cool.

After the chocolate bars are formed, they are packaged and labeled. Finally, they are shipped to stores across the country.

The factory tour is not only educational but also enjoyable. We learn how chocolate is made, and we get to taste some freshly made chocolates at the end of the tour.

Title: “The Wildlife Sanctuary”

The wildlife sanctuary in our town is managed by a dedicated team of conservationists. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of animal species. Visitors are welcomed with informative guided tours.

During the tours, the natural habitats are explained, and the importance of preserving them is emphasized. Many rare species are protected in this sanctuary, and efforts are made to ensure their safety and well-being.

The sanctuary is visited by thousands of nature enthusiasts each year, all of whom appreciate the work being done to conserve our local wildlife.

Title: “The Recycling Program”

In our community, a comprehensive recycling program is implemented by local authorities. Recycling bins are distributed to every household, and residents are encouraged to separate recyclables from other waste.

The collected recyclables are sorted at the recycling center. Paper, plastic, glass, and metal items are all processed separately. Once sorted, the materials are sent to recycling facilities where they are transformed into new products.

Through this program, waste is reduced, and valuable resources are conserved. It’s a simple yet effective way to contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable environment.