I recently wrote this example for my second graders to demonstrate how exciting verbs can change a story. You might like to try it. First, I wrote a story using as many passive and boring verbs as possible. Then I rewrote it, changing only the verbs. Compare the two and see what you think! Also, try writing your own examples. It might be harder than you think to write something completely dull.
Name: _________________________ Date: ________________
In the following stories, highlight or underline the verbs. Then compare the two stories. How are they alike? How are they different? Which one do you like better? Why?
Jack took his dog on a walk. They went to the park. They saw a squirrel carrying nuts. The dog ran after the squirrel. The squirrel ran away. Jack told his dog to come back. The dog did not listen. Jack had to get his dog back. He put his hand on the dog as it went by. He put his hand on the dog’s collar. The dog could not run now. Then Jack put on the leash. He took the dog home.
Jack took his dog on a walk. They jogged to the park. They observed a squirrel carrying nuts. The dog chased after the squirrel. The squirrel dashed away. Jack yelled for his dog to return. The dog refused to listen. Jack needed to capture his dog. He reached for the dog as it zipped by. He grabbed the dog’s collar. The dog halted. Then Jack clipped on the leash. He dragged the dog home.
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