A direct object is a noun or a pronoun that receives the action in the sentence; they can be identified by answering the “what?” or the “who?” questions.
An indirect object, on the other hand, is a noun or a pronoun that receives the direct object, or that is affected by it, thus an indirect object cannot exist without a direct object. Plus, we can identify it by answering “for What/Whom?” questions.
1. The wind blew (Min’s hat) down the road: Direct object
Min's hat is the recipient of the verb "blew". What did the wind blow? Answer: Min's hat.
2. Did you give (Annabelle) the homework?: Indirect object
Annabelle is the person who receives the direct object "homework". Whom did you give the homework? Answer: To Annabelle.
3. Liza gave her homework to (the teacher): Indirect object
Again, the teacher is the person who receives the direct object "homework". Whom did Liza give her homework? Answer: To the teacher.
4. I left (my gloves) on the subway: Direct object
"My gloves" is the recipient of the verb "left". What did you leave on the subway? Answer: My gloves
5. Angelo threw the (towel) angrily: Indirect object
"The towel" is the recipient of the verb "threw". What did Angelo throw angrily? Answer: The towel.
6. I took (my seat) in the front row: Direct object
What did you take in the front row? Answer: My seat.
