Direct and Indirect Objects

Definitions:

• Direct Object (DO): A noun or pronoun that receives the action of the verb.

• Indirect Object (IO): A noun or pronoun that receives the direct object.

Examples:

• She gave the book (DO) to him (IO).

• He sent her (IO) a letter (DO).

Identifying Direct and Indirect Objects:

1. Find the verb in the sentence.

2. Ask "what?" or "whom?" after the verb to find the Direct Object.

3. Ask "to whom?" or "for whom?" to find the Indirect Object.

Practice:

Identify the Direct Object and Indirect Object in the following sentences:

1. She handed the teacher her assignment.

o Verb: handed

o Direct Object: ________________

o Indirect Object: ________________

2. They gave their friends a surprise party.

o Verb: gave

o Direct Object: ________________

o Indirect Object: ________________

3. The chef cooked his guests a special meal.

o Verb: cooked

o Direct Object: ________________

o Indirect Object: ________________

4. I wrote my brother a long letter.

o Verb: wrote

o Direct Object: ________________

o Indirect Object: ________________

Answers:

1. Direct Object: her assignment Indirect Object: the teacher

2. Direct Object: a surprise party Indirect Object: their friends

3. Direct Object: a special meal Indirect Object: his guests

4. Direct Object: a long letter Indirect Object: my brother