Examples of Passive Voice Used Effectively in Argumentative Writing

📚 Quick Study Guide

• 🔍 Passive voice emphasizes the action rather than the actor. Example: 'The ball was thrown by John' (passive) vs. 'John threw the ball' (active).
• ✍️ Use passive voice when the actor is unknown, unimportant, or you want to be less direct.
• ⚖️ In argumentative writing, passive voice can create a more objective tone or downplay responsibility.
• 💡 Avoid overuse of passive voice as it can make your writing weak and unclear.
• 📝 Effective use depends on the specific context and the desired effect.

🧪 Practice Quiz

1. Which of the following sentences is an example of passive voice used effectively in argumentative writing?
   1. A) The government implemented the new policy.
   2. B) The new policy was implemented by the government.
   3. C) Critics have argued against the new policy.
   4. D) The study clearly shows the policy's benefits.
2. In what situation is passive voice MOST useful in argumentative writing?
   1. A) When the actor is important to highlight.
   2. B) When trying to be direct and assertive.
   3. C) When the actor is unknown or irrelevant.
   4. D) When trying to make the writing more concise.
3. Which of the following is NOT a benefit of using passive voice in argumentative writing?
   1. A) It can create a more objective tone.
   2. B) It can downplay responsibility.
   3. C) It always makes the writing clearer.
   4. D) It can emphasize the action over the actor.
4. What is a potential drawback of overusing passive voice?
   1. A) It makes the writing more engaging.
   2. B) It strengthens the argument.
   3. C) It can make the writing weak and unclear.
   4. D) It always makes the writing more formal.
5. Which sentence uses passive voice to emphasize the action rather than the actor?
   1. A) The scientist conducted the experiment.
   2. B) The experiment was conducted by the scientist.
   3. C) The results were published in a journal.
   4. D) Researchers analyzed the data carefully.
6. Why might a writer choose to use passive voice when discussing controversial topics?
   1. A) To clearly assign blame.
   2. B) To be more direct and confrontational.
   3. C) To soften the impact or downplay responsibility.
   4. D) To make the writing more exciting.
7. Select the sentence where passive voice is used to maintain objectivity.
   1. A) I believe the policy is unfair.
   2. B) We all know the policy is ineffective.
   3. C) The policy is considered ineffective by many.
   4. D) Everyone supports the new policy.