Online Writing Support
              OWS HOME               PARTS OF SPEECH               SENTENCE STRUCTURE               PUNCTUATION             USAGE             SELF-TEACHING UNITS             EXERCISES

Distinguishing between Participles and Gerunds - Exercise 3

Directions:  Each sentence contains an underlined verbal phrase. In the box below each sentence, identify the verbal as a present participle or gerund. If the verbal is a participle, write the noun that it is modifying. If the verbal is a gerund, write its function (subject, direct object, appositive, object of preposition, subjective complement). When you are finished, click the "Check My Work" button at the bottom of the page to check your answers.

1.  The candidate getting the most votes wins the election.



2.  After resting for an hour, you will feel much better.



3.  Reading a good novel always gives me pleasure.



4.  Clearing his throat, Bill began to give his speech.



5.  They enjoyed taking long walks on the trail.



6.  We won't eat any of the turkey roasting in your oven.



7.  His profession, teaching English to immigrants, occupied a great deal of his time.



8.  The magazine's cover, appealing to younger readers, will undoubtedly boost sales this month.



9.  The judges, talking at length among themselves, finally gave the award to the Beagle.



10.  Mary's downfall is eating snacks between meals.



           

 

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

copyright  ©2011 Towson University, Writing Support Program. All rights reserved.