B1 Grammar: Gerunds & Infinitives

B1 Grammar: Gerunds & Infinitives
ESL Structure Curriculum

ESL Grammar Course

B1: Intermediate

Two signs, one saying 'To Do' and the other 'Doing', representing infinitives and gerunds

Gerunds & Infinitives

A gerund is the `-ing` form of a verb that acts as a noun. An infinitive is `to + base verb`. The main challenge is knowing which form to use after certain verbs, adjectives, and prepositions, as there are no simple rules—it often requires memorization.

Scope & Content:

  • Verbs followed by gerunds (e.g., `enjoy`, `finish`, `avoid`).
  • Verbs followed by infinitives (e.g., `want`, `decide`, `hope`).
  • Gerunds after prepositions.

⚠️ Attention: Common Challenges

1. After Prepositions → Always a Gerund: If a verb follows a preposition (in, on, at, for, about, etc.), it MUST be in the gerund (`-ing`) form.

  • “I am interested in learning English.”
  • “Thank you for helping me.”

2. Verb Patterns: Unfortunately, you must memorize which verbs are followed by gerunds and which are followed by infinitives.

  • + Gerund: I enjoy reading. (Other verbs: finish, practice, suggest, avoid, mind)
  • + Infinitive: I want to travel. (Other verbs: need, decide, plan, promise, learn)

Practice Quiz

1. I really enjoy ____ to music.

2. He decided ____ a new job.

3. She is very good at ____ languages.

4. Would you mind ____ the window?

5. I hope ____ you again soon.

6. He is thinking about ____ to Canada.

7. We need ____ some groceries after work.

8. ____ is a good way to stay in shape.

9. I’m looking forward to ____ you.

10. She promised ____ me with my project.