Lesson content
Read, practise, then check your understanding
Backshift is common under a past reporting verb but can be optional when information remains true or the reporting viewpoint stays current. Reporting verbs select different patterns: tell someone to do, suggest doing/that, explain that. Report meaning faithfully without pretending paraphrase is exact quotation.
Patterns and examples
- She said that the Earth revolves around the Sun. (still true)
- He suggested taking a break.
- They warned us not to enter.
- Mira claimed that she had already paid.
Notice how form and meaning work together. Read examples aloud, identify the controlling word or clause, and compare them with nearby alternatives before applying the pattern in new writing.
Practice sentences
- Choose whether backshift is necessary.
- Complete three reporting verbs with correct complements.
After answering, explain the rule in your own words and create one original sentence using the same structure.
Knowledge check
Answer every question correctly to complete this chapter.
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