1. No more weak writing! Apply the Power of VERBS!!!

2. This is what I mean by the PASSIVE VOICE….. Definition: Using a “to be” verb with another verb.

3. Here is a list of “to be” verbs that get in the way of powerful writing….. Is Was Am Were Are Being Been Be

4. The boy was bitten by the dog. The dog bit the boy. The technique was employed by the students. The students employed the technique. The story was written quite wonderfully. The author wrote a wonderfully crafted story.

5. Any time these words are used, you’re not using a more powerful verb, thus weakening the power of your writing. Verbs….the ACTION of your sentences…..unlock the energy and excitement you have to offer to a reader. No more wimpy words!!!

6. America was addressed by the President of the United States Monday evening. The President of the United States addressed the American people Monday evening.

7. This dude’s muscles are flexing and huge. Notice how I use “are” here…..it describes this guy. It’s not bad, but VERBS are better than ADJECTIVES Let’s describe him by what he does instead…. This dude’s muscles flex so largely that he makes Rocky look like Steve Urkel.

8. The jaguar is silently stalking its prey through the field. Not too hard to fix….let’s try this: The jaguar silently stalks its prey through the field.

9. Now it’s your turn….. We’re going to examine some POWER VERBS and practice eliminating stupid “weak” verbs from our writing.