Many English verbs can take two objects: a direct object (the thing acted upon) and an indirect object (the recipient). Understanding how to order them — and when a preposition is needed — is essential for grammatically correct sentences.
Practice
"The teacher sent the students a reminder." — Which is the direct object?
He passedthe salt.
Put the words in the correct order:
"My grandmother knitted me a scarf." — Which word is the indirect object?
The waiter broughtthe menu.
Put the words in the correct order:
"The librarian showed the children a map." — Which is the direct object?
Could you handthat pen, please?
Put the words in the correct order:
My uncle builta treehouse last summer.