Infinitive Jobs

Verbals

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

An infinitive is a verbal that is made up of to + a verb and acts as a noun, adjective, or adverb

Ex. I want to eat chicken for dinner.

Infinitive Jobs

An Infinitive can act like a noun, an adjective, or an adverb. (sort of like dependent clauses)

Infinitives as Nouns

• An infinitive is a NOUN when it is acting like a thing/activity.

Ex. My dream is to own a llama farm. Ex. To become a great dancer takes practice.

Infinitives as Adjectives

An infinitive is an Adjective when it is describing a noun or pronoun and tells which one or what kind.

Ex. AJ seems to be full of himself. Ex. This lamp seems to be broken. Ex. The whether looks to be warm.

Infinitives as Adverbs

• An infinitive is an Adverb when it is modifying a verb and tells how or why

Ex. Jake wore a scary costume to scare the kids. Ex. I read books to help myself fall asleep. Ex. James practiced to get better at pitching.

Infinitive Job ChartNoun Adjective Adverb

Acts like a thing/activity

Describes a person, place, or thing and tells which

one

Modifies a verb and tells how or why

Identify the Infinitive and it’s Job (Noun, Adj., Adv.)

1. Sometimes the moon seems to be broken. 2. I like to walk in the rain. 3. To walk every day is great exercise. 4. I read the newspaper to stay informed. 5. Mabel loves to read. 6. Everyone seems to be happy today. 7. Max eats fruits and vegetables to stay healthy.