ParaPro Assesment Practice Exam

What is an example of active voice in a sentence?

1. The cookies were burned by Marie

2. The train was waiting for Joe

3. Marie burned the cookies

4. The homework was completed by the students

The correct answer is: Marie burned the cookies

Active voice occurs when the subject of the sentence performs the action expressed by the verb, making the sentence more direct and lively. In the example "Marie burned the cookies," Marie is the subject who actively performs the action of burning. This structure emphasizes who is doing what, creating clarity and a stronger connection between the subject and the action. In contrast, the other examples utilize passive voice, where the subject is acted upon rather than performing the action. For instance, "The cookies were burned by Marie" places the focus on the cookies rather than Marie, and the action is presented in a less vigorous manner. Similarly, the other choices shift emphasis away from the doer of the action, which dilutes the impact of the statement. Understanding active versus passive voice helps in crafting sentences that are more engaging and straightforward.