Active vs. Passive Voice Explained

The video tutorial from UBC focuses on improving writing skills, particularly in scientific communication. It explains the difference between active and passive voice, emphasizing the benefits of using active voice for clarity and conciseness. Through examples, viewers learn to identify and apply both voices appropriately. The tutorial also highlights scenarios where passive voice is preferred, such as depersonalizing statements or when the subject is unknown. The video concludes with a recap, encouraging the use of active voice in scientific writing.

What is the main goal of the project mentioned at the beginning?

• To enhance writing skills in science communication

• To study the behavior of squirrels

• To create a new science curriculum

• To develop videos for improving math skills

What is the first step in identifying the voice of a sentence?

• Identifying the subject

• Finding the verb

• Looking for the object

• Determining the tense

Which voice is demonstrated by the subject performing the action?

• Direct voice

• Indirect voice

• Passive voice

• Active voice

Why is the active voice generally preferred in writing?

• It is more complex

• It uses more words

• It is clearer and more succinct

• It is more passive

What is an example of a sentence in the active voice?

• The solutions were mixed by Grammar Belgium

• The mixing of the solutions was done by Grammar Belgium

• Grammar Belgium mixed the solutions

• The solutions mixed themselves

Which sentence is in the passive voice?

• Grammar Squirrel observed the color change

• Grammar Badger lent a paw

• Two of our test tubes had already been broken

• The instructor chose the squirrel's partner

In what situation might the passive voice be preferred?

• When the subject performing the action is unknown

• When writing a short story

• When the action is more important than the subject

• Both A and C

How did Grammar Squirrel use the passive voice effectively?

• To make her report longer

• To confuse her audience

• To depersonalize a sensitive situation

• To blame Grammar Badger

Why is the active voice often more suitable for editing work?

• It adds complexity

• It clarifies and reduces wordiness

• It hides the subject's identity

• It makes the text longer

What change in scientific writing is mentioned towards the end?

• A move towards more complex language

• A shift from passive to active voice

• An emphasis on using more passive voice

• A preference for longer sentences