How do we form the passive?
We form the passive using the appropriate form of the verb to be and the past participle of the main verb.
Give an example of the present simple passive. pool/swimming lessons
The pool is used for swimming lessons.
Give an example of the present continuous passive. car/fix/right now
Give an example of the present continuous passive. My car is being fixed right now.
Give an example of the past simple passive. Sagrada Familia/design/Gaudi
Sagrada Familia was designed by Gaudi.
Give an example of the present perfect simple passive. website/update
The website has been updated.
Why use the word ‘by’ in the passive?
We can use ‘by’ to say who performed the action of the verb. The Mona Lisa was painted by DaVinci.
How do we form the passive with modal verbs?
modal + be+ past participle My car should be fixed by Saturday.
Name 3 ways we use the passive.
We do not know who or what does the action. If who or what does the action is unimportant. If it is obvious who or what does the action.
My brother’s phone _____________ (steal) as he was getting out of his car.
was stolen
I _____________ (take out) €15 from the cashpoint yesterday and I’ve spent it already on sweets.
took out
I can’t go by bike because it _____________ (fix) right now.
’s being fixed
I _____________ (eat up) everything mum, can I go out with my friends now?
’ve eaten up
You _____________ (should/apologise) for breaking the plates.
should apologise
Look! Some water _____________ (spill) on the floor.
has been spilled
The World Cup _____________ (watch) by millions of people all over the world.
is watched
I don’t think we _____________ (should/give) so much homework.
should be given
