How It Is Made (H1)
Listen to Course
0:00
0:00
EN: The passive voice (be + past participle) is used when the focus is on the action or the object receiving the action, rather than the person performing it. In this sentence, 'is made' emphasizes the creation of the vase.
This book was written by a famous author.
EN: The prepositional phrase 'by hand' is an idiom meaning 'using the hands, rather than a machine'. It functions as an adverbial modifier of manner.
The letters were all written by hand.
EN: In English-speaking cultures, emphasizing that something is 'made by hand' often implies high quality, uniqueness, and artisanal value, contrasting with mass-produced factory goods.
EN: The passive voice in the past tense is formed using 'was/were' + past participle (V3). It is used when the action itself or the receiver of the action is more important than the doer. In this sentence, 'was woven' is the past passive form of 'weave'.
The historic temple was built by local villagers in the 19th century.
EN: The preposition 'by' is used in passive sentences to introduce the agent (the person or thing that performs the action). Here, 'by skilled workers' indicates who did the weaving.
This beautiful portrait was painted by a famous street artist.
EN: Silk weaving is a traditional craft with thousands of years of history, particularly in Asian cultures. Describing it with passive voice ('was woven by skilled workers') emphasizes the craftsmanship and historical value of the textile, portraying it as a work of art rather than just a commercial product.
EN: The Present Simple Passive Voice (am/is/are + past participle) is used to focus on the action or the receiver of the action rather than the doer. In this sentence, 'are painted' shows that the action of painting is done to 'these bowls'.
These toys are made of wood.
EN: The preposition 'with' is used here to indicate the instrument, tool, or material used to perform an action. In this case, 'bright colors' are the medium used for painting.
She wrote the letter with a blue pen.
EN: The Past Simple Passive Voice (was/were + past participle) is used to focus on the action or the object of the action rather than the person who performed it. In this sentence, 'The temple' is the receiver of the action 'built', and the agent (who built it) is unknown or unimportant.
The ancient castle was destroyed during the war.
EN: The phrase 'hundreds of years ago' is a time expression used to indicate an approximate, long period of time in the past. 'Hundreds of' means several hundred, and 'ago' is placed after the time duration to mean back in the past from now.
This traditional dance was created hundreds of years ago.
EN: Passive Voice with Modal Verbs: When using a modal verb (like 'can', 'must', 'should') in the passive voice, the structure is 'modal verb + be + past participle'. This is used to show that something is possible or necessary to be done to the subject.
The homework must be finished by tomorrow.
EN: The preposition 'into' is used after verbs of change or transformation (like 'fold', 'turn', 'change') to indicate the resulting state, shape, or form.
Water turns into ice when it freezes.
EN: This sentence evokes the traditional art of origami (paper folding), which, while originating in East Asia, is widely appreciated globally as a creative craft that transforms a simple flat sheet of paper into complex 3D sculptures.
EN: The passive voice (be + past participle) is used when the focus is on the action or the receiver of the action, rather than the doer. Here, 'is held' (present simple passive) indicates a regular, repeated action.
The meeting is held in the main conference room.
EN: Adverbials of time and place: In English, expressions of time (every autumn) and place (in the village) are typically placed at the end of the sentence, with the place often preceding the time, though 'every autumn' here acts as a frequency adverbial that fits naturally before the location.
We play soccer every Sunday in the park.
EN: The Passive Voice (be + past participle) is used when the focus is on the action or the receiver of the action, rather than the doer. In this sentence, 'was dyed' indicates that the action of dyeing happened to the cloth in the past.
The house was painted last week.
EN: The present participle 'using' acts as a participle preposition meaning 'by means of' or 'with the help of', introducing the instrument or method used to perform the action.
He solved the puzzle using a computer program.
EN: Natural dyeing is a traditional craft found in many cultures worldwide. Before the invention of synthetic dyes in the 19th century, all textiles were colored using organic materials derived from plants, minerals, and insects. Today, this eco-friendly method is experiencing a revival among artisans.
EN: The Present Simple Passive Voice (am/is/are + past participle) is used to describe a regular action, a general truth, or a process where the doer of the action is obvious, unimportant, or unknown. In this sentence, 'is shaped' focuses on the action being done to the pottery.
The glass is blown by hand in this workshop.
EN: The preposition 'on' is used to indicate position on a surface or a machine that rotates or operates as a platform, such as 'a spinning wheel'.
The clay is placed on the table.
EN: A 'spinning wheel' in pottery is commonly referred to as a 'potter's wheel'. It is an ancient invention that allowed potters to create symmetrical, round ceramic vessels. This traditional craft is highly valued worldwide as an art form that connects natural elements (clay, water, fire) with human skill.
EN: The passive voice (be + past participle) is used when the focus is on the action or the receiver of the action, rather than the doer. In this sentence, 'are carved' indicates that the masks receive the action of carving.
The wooden toys are painted by local artists.
EN: The preposition 'from' is used to indicate the source material from which something is made, especially when the material has undergone a physical change but is still recognizable.
This table is made from strong oak wood.
EN: Woodcarving is a traditional craft in many cultures worldwide. Using 'soft wood' (such as pine, linden, or cedar) is a common practice because it is easier to carve intricate details by hand compared to hardwood.
EN: The passive voice (be + past participle) is used when the focus is on the action or the receiver of the action, rather than the doer. Here, 'was passed down' indicates that the recipe received the action of being handed down.
The traditional song was written by an unknown artist.
EN: The phrasal verb 'pass down' means to give or teach something to people who are younger or who will live after you. It is often used with cultural traditions, recipes, or family heirlooms.
These skills were passed down from father to son.
EN: In many cultures, family recipes are considered precious heirlooms, passed down orally or through handwritten notebooks from generation to generation, representing family history and identity.
EN: The Passive Voice (be + past participle) is used when the focus is on the action or the receiver of the action, rather than the doer. In this sentence, 'is drawn' indicates that the pattern receives the action of drawing.
The picture was painted by a famous artist.
EN: The prepositional phrase 'with + abstract noun' (e.g., 'with care') functions as an adverbial phrase, describing how an action is performed. 'With great care' means 'very carefully'.
She handled the fragile glass with care.
EN: Passive Voice in Present Simple Tense: Used to focus on the action or the receiver of the action rather than the doer. It is formed using 'am/is/are + past participle (V3)'. Here, 'are sung' is the passive form of the verb 'sing'.
These letters are written by hand.
EN: Adverb Placement ('still'): The adverb 'still' is used to describe an action or situation that continues to happen. In sentences with auxiliary or 'be' verbs, 'still' is typically placed after the first auxiliary/be verb and before the main verb.
The keys are still kept in the drawer.
EN: In many cultures, including English-speaking ones, traditional or 'old' songs hold a significant place in weddings. They connect the couple to their heritage and community, symbolizing continuity and the preservation of cultural identity across generations.
EN: The Present Simple Passive Voice (am/is/are + past participle) is used to focus on the action or the receiver of the action rather than the doer. In this sentence, 'are made' emphasizes that the crafts undergo the action of making.
These glass bottles are recycled in this factory.
EN: The prepositional phrase 'by hand' is an adverbial phrase of manner, indicating that something is done using manual labor rather than machines.
EN: The Present Simple Passive Voice (am/is/are + past participle) is used to describe actions where the focus is on the object receiving the action rather than the doer. It is commonly used to describe processes or general facts.
These beautiful baskets are woven from bamboo.
EN: Prepositional phrases of place ('In one village' and 'on a spinning wheel') are used to provide spatial context. 'In' is used for a general area or community, while 'on' is used for a specific surface or machine.
On this table, the clay is kept moist.
EN: A 'spinning wheel' in the context of pottery is commonly referred to as a 'potter's wheel' (拉坯機). Traditional pottery making is a highly respected craft in many cultures, often passed down through generations in specific artisan villages.
EN: Passive Voice (be + past participle): Used when the action itself is more important than who performs it. In this sentence, 'is dug' and '[is] cleaned' are passive verbs describing what happens to 'the clay'.
The letters are delivered every morning.
EN: Ellipsis in Coordinate Clauses: When two passive verbs share the same subject ('the clay') and auxiliary verb ('is') connected by 'and', the second auxiliary verb 'is' can be omitted (ellipsed) to avoid repetition.
The food was prepared and served by volunteers.
EN: The passive voice (be + past participle) is used when the focus is on the action or the object receiving the action, rather than who performs it. Here, 'is dried' shows that the pot undergoes the drying process.
The letters are delivered every morning.
EN: The prepositional phrase 'for + [duration]' is used to express how long an action or state lasts. In this sentence, 'for days' means the drying process continues for several days.
They stayed in the village for weeks.
EN: The Present Simple Passive (am/is/are + past participle) is used to describe facts, general truths, or processes where the action is more important than who performs it. In this sentence, 'are mixed' shows that the mixing of colors is a general fact.
Paper is made from wood.
EN: The preposition 'from' is used here to indicate the source or origin of the materials (plants and minerals) used to create the colors.
Wine is made from grapes.
EN: Present Simple Passive Voice: Formed with 'am/is/are + past participle (V3)'. It is used when the focus is on the action or the receiver of the action, rather than the doer. Here, 'Patterns' (plural subject) is paired with 'are painted'.
The letters are delivered every morning.
EN: Adverbial Phrase of Frequency/Manner 'one ... at a time': This structure is used to describe doing things individually and sequentially rather than all at once. 'One careful line at a time' specifies the meticulous manner of the painting process.
Please enter the room one person at a time.
EN: The passive voice (be + past participle) is used when the focus is on the action or the object receiving the action, rather than who performs it. Here, 'are baked' indicates that the pots undergo the baking process.
The bread is baked fresh every morning.
EN: The conjunction 'until' is used to show that an action or situation continues up to a specific time or event. In this sentence, it connects the main clause with an adverbial clause of time.
Stir the mixture until it is smooth.
EN: Passive Voice in Past Simple Tense: Formed with 'was/were' + past participle (V3). It is used to emphasize the action or the receiver of the action rather than the doer. In this sentence, 'were taught' indicates that the skills received the action of teaching in the past.
These beautiful songs were written by her grandfather.
EN: The prepositional phrase 'by... to...': 'By' introduces the agent (the doer of the action in a passive sentence), while 'to' indicates the recipient of the action (the people who receive the teaching).
The secret was passed by the chef to his apprentice.
EN: In many traditional cultures, crafts and artisanal skills are not learned in formal schools but are passed down orally and through hands-on practice from generation to generation within families, preserving cultural heritage and family identity.
EN: Present Perfect Passive Voice (have/has been + past participle) is used to describe an action that started in the past and continues to the present, emphasizing the receiver of the action rather than the doer.
These traditions have been kept alive by local families.
EN: The prepositional phrase 'for centuries' is used with the present perfect tense to indicate the duration of an action or state spanning hundreds of years up to the present.
The castle has stood on the hill for centuries.
EN: This sentence reflects the deep appreciation for traditional craftsmanship and cultural preservation. In many cultures, passing down handmade techniques through generations is a source of community pride and identity, contrasting with modern mass production.
EN: The Present Simple Passive Voice (am/is/are + past participle) is used to focus on the action or the receiver of the action rather than the doer. In this sentence, 'the work' is the receiver of the action 'is shared'.
The local traditions are taught to young children.
EN: The prepositional phrase 'from far away' acts as an adjective modifying the noun 'visitors', indicating their place of origin.
We received letters from far away.
EN: This sentence reflects a common modern trend in traditional craft villages worldwide, where local artisans open their workshops to global tourists. This cultural exchange helps sustain traditional arts financially and keeps heritage alive through education.
EN: The Passive Voice (be + past participle) is used when the focus is on the action or the receiver of the action, rather than the doer. In this sentence, 'is loved' and 'is kept' are passive verbs.
The old temple is visited by thousands of people every year.
EN: Adverbial clauses of time introduced by 'when' are used to show that one event triggers another. In this structure, the present simple tense is used in the 'when' clause to refer to a general truth or future condition.
When a language is spoken, it stays alive.
EN: This sentence reflects a universal cultural value: the preservation of traditional crafts. In many cultures, traditional arts and crafts are not just hobbies but vital links to history and identity. Passing these skills to the next generation ensures that cultural heritage remains 'alive' rather than becoming extinct museum pieces.
EN: The passive voice (be + past participle) is used when the focus is on the action or the receiver of the action, rather than the doer. Here, 'are passed on' emphasizes that the traditions are being transmitted, while the agent (the people passing them on) is omitted because it is obvious or general.
These stories are told to children every night.
EN: The phrasal verb 'pass on' means to transmit or hand down something (like knowledge, traditions, or objects) to the next generation or to another person.
The family recipe was passed on to her daughter.
EN: In many cultures, traditional crafts and songs are not just hobbies but essential parts of cultural identity. The phrase 'passed on with pride' reflects the deep respect and emotional connection younger generations hold for their ancestors' heritage, ensuring these practices do not fade away in the modern world.
EN: Present Simple Passive Voice in Questions: Used to ask about a process or how something is created. It is formed with 'How' + 'is/are' + subject + past participle (V3).
How is this bread made?
EN: Direct Address with Comma: When addressing someone directly by name at the end of a sentence, a comma must be placed before the name.
Where are you going, John?
EN: The passive voice (be + past participle) is used when the focus is on the action or the object receiving the action, rather than the person performing it. Here, 'is shaped' and 'is painted' (with 'is' omitted in the second part to avoid repetition) describe what happens to the bowl.
The wooden box is carved by an old artist.
EN: Prepositional phrases of manner ('by hand' and 'with care') describe how an action is performed. 'By hand' means using manual labor instead of machines, and 'with care' means doing something attentively and gently.
She wrote the letter by hand with great care.
EN: The passive voice in the past tense is formed using 'was/were' followed by the past participle of the main verb. It is used when the focus is on the action or the receiver of the action (the silk) rather than the doer.
The temple was built hundreds of years ago.
EN: The preposition 'by' is used in passive sentences to introduce the agent—the person or thing that performs the action.
This beautiful vase was made by hand.
EN: Silk weaving has a rich history in many cultures, often associated with high status and meticulous craftsmanship. Describing items as 'woven by skilled workers' highlights the value of traditional, non-industrialized labor.
EN: The passive voice (be + past participle) is used when the focus is on the action or the object receiving the action, rather than the person performing it. Here, 'are carved' indicates that the masks receive the action of carving.
The wooden toys are painted by local artists.
EN: The preposition 'from' is used to indicate the source material from which something is made, especially when the original material has undergone a physical change but is still recognizable.
This beautiful paper is made from bamboo.
EN: Woodcarving is a traditional craft in many cultures worldwide. Softwoods, such as pine or linden, are often preferred by artisans for intricate hand-carving because they are easier to shape with hand tools compared to hardwoods.
EN: The past passive voice (was/were + past participle) is used to describe an action that happened to the subject in the past, especially when the person or thing performing the action is unknown or not important.
The letter was written in 1950.
EN: The repetition of the word 'long' in the phrase 'long, long ago' is used for emphasis, making the time period sound even more distant in the past.
They lived in a castle long, long ago.
EN: Passive Voice with Modal Verbs: The structure 'modal verb + be + past participle' is used to show that the subject receives the action, rather than performing it. Here, 'can be folded' indicates possibility in the passive voice.
The trash can be recycled into new products.
EN: The preposition 'into' is used to express transformation or change of state, showing that the paper changes from its original flat form into a new shape.
The ice melted into water.
EN: The sentence evokes the traditional art of paper folding, known as 'origami' in Japan, which has become a popular craft and educational activity worldwide. It highlights the cultural appreciation for transforming simple materials into beautiful art.
EN: Passive Voice (Present Simple): Used when the action itself or the receiver of the action is more important than the doer. It is formed with 'am/is/are + past participle'.
The bread is baked fresh every morning.
EN: Preposition 'from' for origin/source: Used here to indicate the source material from which something is created or derived, especially when the original material has changed its form.
Wine is made from grapes.
EN: Present Simple Passive Voice: Used to describe actions where the focus is on the action or the receiver of the action, rather than the doer. It is formed using 'am/is/are' + past participle (V3). In this sentence, 'are sung' is the passive form of 'sing'.
These letters are written by hand.
EN: Adverb Placement (still): The adverb 'still' is used to describe an action that continues to happen. In passive voice sentences, 'still' is typically placed after the auxiliary verb (am/is/are) and before the main verb (past participle).
The keys are still kept in the drawer.
EN: In many traditional cultures, songs and music are not just entertainment but essential oral traditions passed down through generations. Singing these songs at annual festivals helps preserve cultural heritage and community identity.
EN: The passive voice (be + past participle) is used when the focus is on the action or the receiver of the action, rather than the doer. Here, 'are passed down' shows that the 'old skills' receive the action of being transmitted.
These traditions are kept alive by the villagers.
EN: The phrasal verb 'pass down' means to teach or give something to someone who will live after you, often across generations. It is frequently used in the passive voice.
The family recipe was passed down to me by my grandmother.
EN: In many cultures, traditional crafts and skills are not just hobbies but a source of community identity and historical pride. Passing them down through generations ensures that cultural heritage is preserved and celebrated.
EN: The relative clause 'that is loved' is used as an adjective clause to modify the noun 'A craft'. The relative pronoun 'that' acts as the subject of the relative clause.
The book that is written in English is easy to read.
EN: The passive voice is formed with 'be + past participle (V-ed)'. In this sentence, 'is loved' and 'is kept' are both passive constructions, emphasizing the action being done to the subject rather than who does it.
The old house is kept clean by the family.
EN: This sentence reflects a universal cultural value: the preservation of traditional crafts. It emphasizes that cultural heritage survives not just through physical preservation, but through active appreciation and emotional connection ('loved').
Key vocabulary words with IPA pronunciation, definitions, example sentences, and interactive quizzes.
Phrases with type tags, bilingual definitions, usage notes, and example sentences.
Using the hands, rather than a machine.
To give or teach something to people who are younger or who will live after you.
A device used for spinning yarn, or a potter's wheel used for shaping clay.
To preserve or maintain something so that it does not fade, die, or disappear.