Grammar Extension

Activity 1.8Verbs

What is a Verb?

• A verb is a part of speech that expresses action, occurrence, or existence.

• Example: The dog barked and ran after the cat. ARF!

ARF!

What is a Vivid Verb?

• A vivid verb provides a very specific depiction of an action.

• Example: The dog growled and sprang after the cat.

Active vs Passive Verbs

• For most writing, use the active form of a verb rather than the passive.

• Example: The dog growled at me. (active)I was growled at by the dog.

(passive)

Let’s Review…

What is an action verb?

Action Verb

An action verb describes the action or behavior of something.

What are some examples?

Let’s Review…

What is a linking verb?

Linking Verb

• Linking verbs express a state of being and connect the subject with a word that describes or identifies it.

• These include all forms of the verb be as well as appear, seem, become, feel, look, smell, taste, and sound. A few of these verbs (the ones that relate to the senses) can be both action and linking:

I feel a chill in the air. (action)I feel energetic today. (linking)

Identify the verb(s).

Fields of tall corn stretched into the distance wherever you looked.

Identify the verb(s).

Fields of tall corn stretched into the distance wherever you looked.

Identify the verb(s).

The summer sky was clear and blue.

Identify the verb(s).

The summer sky was clear and blue.

Identify the verb(s).

I felt a brief fear as Lynn disappeared into the cornstalks.

Identify the verb(s).

I felt a brief fear as Lynn disappeared into the cornstalks.