Explain infinitives to a seventh grader include graphics and create a test with answers

 What is an infinitive?

An infinitive is a verb form that starts with the word "to" and can be used as a noun, adjective, or adverb.

Here are some examples of infinitives:

• Noun: To err is human.
• Adjective: I have a desire to learn.
• Adverb: She is quick to anger.

How to identify an infinitive

To identify an infinitive, look for the word "to" followed by a verb.

Here are some examples:

• To run a race
• To eat an apple
• To sleep for eight hours

How to use infinitives

Infinitives can be used in a variety of ways in a sentence. Here are a few examples:

• As a noun:
  • To run a race is my dream.
  • To eat an apple is healthy.
• As an adjective:
  • I have a desire to learn.
  • He has a talent to write.
• As an adverb:
  • She is quick to anger.
  • He is happy to help.

Here is a graphic that shows how to use infinitives in a sentence:

Opens in a new window grammarist.com

graphic that shows how to use infinitives in a sentence

Test

Identify the infinitive in each sentence:

1. I want to go to the park.
2. He is good at playing basketball.
3. To swim is a great way to exercise.
4. She is eager to learn new things.
5. He is quick to anger.

Answers:

1. to go
2. at playing
3. to swim
4. to learn
5. to anger

Bonus question:

Write a sentence using an infinitive as a noun.

Answer:

My dream is to become a doctor.