Gerund Functions in a Sentence

Part 2

Standard

ELACC8L1: Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.

a. Explain the function of verbals (gerunds, participles, infinitives) in general and their function in particular sentences.

Remember

Gerunds are verbals that act like nouns and end in “ING”

Functions in the Sentence

Since gerunds act like nouns, gerunds and gerund phrases get to do the same things that nouns do, including:

• Subject• Direct Object• Indirect Object • Object of a Preposition• Predicate Noun• Appositive

Gerunds as Direct Objects

Gerunds/Gerund Phrases can be direct objects when they tell what is receiving the action.

Ex. I love playing baseball after school. Ex. I enjoy eating a big meal on Thanksgiving.

Hint

Hint: Usually when a gerund or gerund phrase comes after an Action verb, it is a direct object.

Ex. Laura likes baking muffins for her family.

Gerunds as Indirect Objects

Gerunds/Gerund phrases can be indirect objects when they tell who/what gets the DO.

This is very unusual, but it can happen.

Ex. I gave loving you a chance. Ex. I gave reading the book a solid effort.

Hint

Hint: Gerunds are only indirect objects if they come between an AV and a DO and tell what gets the DO.

Ex. I gave dancing a try.

Gerunds as Predicate Nouns

Gerunds can be predicate nouns when they come after linking verbs: am, is, are, was, were, be, been, being

Ex. Eric’s favorite activity is playing tennis. Ex. My hobby is riding a bike.

Hint

Hint: When a gerund/gerund phrase comes after a linking verb, it is usually a predicate noun.

Ex. My dog’s favorite thing is playing with socks.

What is the Gerund’s function?Appositive, subject, object of the preposition,

direct object, indirect object, predicate noun.

1.My dog’s hobby is chewing on shoes.2.Surfing can be dangerous. 3.Many kids are fond of playing Angry Birds. 4. I like going to movies. 5.My brothers gave bow hunting a try.