1. Participial phrases are derived from sentences. You should be able to change a participial phrase into a sentence with the noun it modifies serving as subject.
Fred regarded his pickup, stalled in the middle of Lamar, with disgust.
cf. Fred regarded his pickup with disgust. The pickup was stalled in the middle of Lamar.
2. The participal may be active or passive
Stacking the dirty dishes in the sink, Harry left. (active)
Edwina regarded the dirty dishes stacked in the sink with resignation. (passive)
3. The participal may be perfect.
Having paid good money to hear her favorite band, Edwina was disappointed when they canceled.
4. They may take any one of the 10 basic patterns
I. Having been in San Antonio before, I knew my way around.
II. Being curious, the kitten got into mischief often.
III. Being an English major, I read long novels for my classes.
IV. Feeling confident, Sam started the New York Times crossword puzzle.
V. Having become a grammarian, Sam experienced a sense of smug superiority.
VI. The father told a story to the child crying about her burst balloon.
VII. The prize will be awarded to the student making the highest grade on the test.
VIII. The committee awarding the students prizes met in secret.
IX. Considering himself justified, Harold wouldn't speak to Grace.
X. Grace, considering Harold a fool, married William.
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