Writing Effective Sentences Unit 1

Lesson 3 Simple sentences with linking verbs OBJECTIVES: After completing this lesson, you should be able to explain the function of linking verbs recognize the difference between linking verbs and auxiliary verbs remember the most common linking verbs identify linking verbs in simple sentences recognize the difference between linking verbs and action verbs

3A linking verbs The second major kind of verb (other than an action verb) is called a linking verb (LV). Whereas an action verb tells something the subject did (such as: I sold my car. The guests laughed. Mr. Blue thought carefully.), a linking verb connects (links) the subject to other words in the sentence.

Linking verbs consist of the various forms of “to be” as well as a number of other verbs, including those that deal with the senses: e.g., sense of taste, sense of touch, sense of sight. A list of common linking verbs follows: amwereappearseem arebebecometaste isbeenfeel wasbeinglook

These sentences illustrate the use of linking verbs: I am the cook. (“I” and “cook” are the same person.) Carmen is a fine singer. (“Carmen” and “singer” are the same person.) Many workers are very tired. (“tired” describes “workers.”) The dancers were happy to see me. (“happy” describes “dancers.”) Notice that each of the verbs in the example sentences is a form of “to be.” SLV S S S

Application 3-1 In the following sentences identify each linking verb by placing the letters LV above it. 1.Reasons for their action were understandable. 2.Our math problems are far too difficult.

3.According to our records, her first language is Chinese. 4.She seems nervous about her performance. 5.Dr. Johnson had been awake all nigh before the game.

Application 3-2 In the sentences below identify each linking verb with LV, and identify each auxiliary verb with AUX; also identify the subject (S) of the sentence. Remember that if a state-of-being verb is used alone it is considered a linking verb; if it precedes another verb, it is considered an auxiliary.

1.No one was in town that day. 2.After the concert the conductor is usually happy. 3.Each portion was divided again by the cook. 4.You are lucky in this case. 5.The weather was extremely humid during our visit.

6.On the whole our employees were enthusiastic. 7.They were told to add the figures on page Mrs. Hansen is happy with their selection. 9.By evening all of us were weary. 10.Several new models are available in white this year.

Application 3-3 In the following sentences identify each linking verb with LV, and each action verb with AV. If any main verbs are preceded by an auxiliary verb, mark the auxiliary with AUX. also identify the subject of each sentence. 1.Mike brought enough food to feed the entire group.

2.They must understand the rules of the game. 3.Plans for action are not yet clear. 4.Drivers were given strict orders regarding service. 5.Good teachers provide good examples. 6.Most of the time the music was way too loud for me.

7.During the morning session the speaker talked for a whole hour. 8.I am tired after driving all day. 9.That meaning was understood by everyone there. 10.The department’s record is better than ever.