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Gerunds - Exercise 3

Directions:  Locate the gerund (gerund phrase) in each sentence.  Then identify the gerund's function in the sentence as subject, direct object, subjective complement,object of preposition, or appositive. Type your answer into the box below the sentence. When you are finished, click the "Check My Work" button at the bottom of the page to check your answers.

Note: If the gerund is part of a gerund phrase, include the whole phrase in your answer.

1.  The maintenance workers continued cleaning up the debris from the storm.

gerund phrase = 
function = 

2.  A problem that continually plagues me is remembering people's names.

gerund phrase = 
function = 

3.  Clarence has a real talent for putting people at ease.

gerund phrase = 
function = 

4.  Keeping the crowds orderly during the celebration will be a difficult task.

gerund phrase = 
function = 

5.  The woman insisted on paying for her own meal.

gerund phrase = 
function = 

6.  His hobby, collecting stamps, keeps him busy.

gerund phrase = 
function = 

7.  Planning can make the difference between a good and a bad trip.

gerund phrase = 
function = 

8.  The decorator suggested papering the wall with a floral design.

gerund phrase = 
function = 

9.  By cooperating, you will encourage a friendly atmosphere at the office.

gerund phrase = 
function = 

10.  One attraction of this lake is fishing for large trout.

gerund phrase = 
function = 

           

 

For further information on these resources, contact
Margaret L. Benner
benner@towson.edu

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