The indirect object of a sentence is acted upon by the direct object. Let's review the direct object again so we can compare it to the indirect object.
- John passed the cake.
There is no recipient in this sentence. Thus, "the cake" is the direct object. Take a look at this example:
John passed his sister the cake.
"The cake" still remains the direct object. However, we now have a recipient of the cake, which is John's sister! John's sister is thus the indirect object, which is acted on by the direct object. Remember, to find the indirect object you have to find the direct object first.
Noun Clauses as Indirect Objects
Noun clauses that act as indirect objects often use the following as subordinators:
- that
- what
Take a look at the following examples with noun clauses as indirect objects. The third example is an example where the noun clause does not have a subordinator. Try to identify what the direct object is in the sentence before you find the indirect object noun clause.
Her parents gave that she wants to go to the concert some consideration.
You should have given what your parents said both thought and consideration.
The teacher gave all his students failing the test a week's worth of detention!
Unlike direct object noun clauses, you CANNOT omit the subordinators "that" and "what" in the sentence or it will no longer make sense!
Exercise
Open the exercise to begin the activity. Follow the instructions in the document.