Gerunds vs. Infinitives

Absolutely! Let’s dive into the nuances of gerunds and infinitives:

Lesson Title: Gerunds vs. Infinitives: The Shape-Shifting Verbs

Introduction:

Welcome back, grammar detectives! Today, we’re tackling a tricky duo: gerunds and infinitives. These verb forms can change the entire meaning of a sentence, depending on which one you choose. We’ll focus on verbs that can take both gerunds and infinitives, but with a twist – the meaning shifts depending on the form. Get ready to flex your grammar muscles and uncover the secrets of these shape-shifting verbs!

Part 1: Gerunds vs. Infinitives – A Quick Refresher

• Gerund: A verb ending in “-ing” that functions as a noun.
  • Example: Swimming is my favorite exercise.
• Infinitive: “To” + the base form of a verb.
  • Example: I want to learn how to play the guitar.

Activity: Gerund or Infinitive?

• Identify whether the underlined word is a gerund or infinitive:

1. I enjoy reading in my free time. (gerund)
2. She wants to travel the world. (infinitive)
3. Running is a great way to stay healthy. (gerund)
4. We decided to postpone the meeting. (infinitive)

Part 2: Verbs with Shifting Meanings

• Some verbs can be followed by either a gerund or an infinitive, but the meaning of the sentence changes.
• Let’s explore a few examples:

1. Remember:

• Remember + gerund: Recall a past action
  • Example: I remember visiting the Eiffel Tower.
• Remember + infinitive: Remember to do something in the future
  • Example: Please remember to lock the door.

2. Forget:

• Forget + gerund: Forget a past action
  • Example: I’ll never forget seeing the Grand Canyon.
• Forget + infinitive: Forget to do something
  • Example: I forgot to buy milk at the store.

3. Stop:

• Stop + gerund: Cease an ongoing action
  • Example: I stopped smoking last year.
• Stop + infinitive: Interrupt one action to do another
  • Example: I stopped to ask for directions.

Activity: Meanings in Motion

• Choose one of the verbs (remember, forget, stop) and write two sentences:
  • One sentence using the verb + gerund.
  • One sentence using the verb + infinitive.
  • Explain the difference in meaning between the two sentences.

Part 3: Other Shape-Shifting Verbs

• Other verbs that change meaning with gerunds and infinitives:
  • Regret, try, need, go on

Activity: Verb Exploration

• Research one of the verbs listed above (regret, try, need, go on).
• Find examples of how it’s used with both gerunds and infinitives.
• Explain the difference in meaning for each usage.
• Share your findings with the class.

Wrap-up:

• Gerunds and infinitives can be tricky, but understanding their nuances opens up a world of expression.
• Pay attention to the verbs that change meaning depending on which form follows them.
• Keep practicing to master these shape-shifting verbs and use them with confidence!

Homework:

• Write a short story using at least three verbs that change meaning with gerunds and infinitives.
• Be sure to use both forms correctly and convey the intended meaning.

Additional Tips for Teachers:

• Provide ample examples and exercises for students to practice.
• Use authentic materials (e.g., news articles, movie clips, songs) to show gerunds and infinitives in context.
• Encourage students to create their own sentences and stories using these verb forms.