8th Grade English Help

Help with 8th Grade English

Verbals

As the root word suggests, verbals are words created with verbs. However, they are not action verbs, which means they are not used to show what the subject of the sentence is doing. In fact, verbals can actually act as the subject of the sentence depending what type is used. The three types of verbals are explained below with examples.

Gerunds

Gerunds are verb-related words that serve as a noun in a sentence. These words always have -ing added to them.

Writing is a challenging but enjoyable activity.

My least favorite exercise activity is running.

Participles

Participles function as an adjective in a sentence. They usually have -ing, -ed or -en at the end of them.

The broken vase was worth a fortune.

The sinking stone was swallowed by the huge fish.

Infinitives

Infinitives can act as adjectives, nouns or adverbs in a sentence. They are formed by adding the word to before the base form of the verb. However, to is not actually attached to the word.

To succeed, you have to give your best effort.

I tried to play, but the coach wouldn't let me.

Verb Mood

Verb mood refers to the manner in which a sentence is expressed. There are three types of verb moods. Below, all three types are explained with examples.

Indicative

The indicative verb mood is the most common type. It is used to ask questions or make direct statements. It also expresses facts and opinions.

Barack Obama is the nation's first African American president.

What are you doing tonight?

My mother loves flowers.

Imperative

The imperative verb mood is used for commands, requests and for giving advice. When you write a sentence using this mood, the subject is the pronoun you. However, the sentence will usually not contain you in it.

Take out the garbage now, please.

Be strong and don't give up.

Stand up straight!

Subjunctive

The subjunctive verb mood is usually used to show uncertainty or to express a wish. Many times, the subjunctive mood can be identified by the use of the word if or the phrase as if in the sentence. However, this is not always the case.

She danced as if there was no one else around.

If I were you, I'd leave as soon as possible.

May you fulfill all your dreams and have a wonderful life.