So What the Hell is a Gerund???

I remember my very first day of teaching.  The lesson plan called for gerunds.  I had no idea what gerunds were, and even less of an idea of how to explain them.  Let's just say that first lesson went about as smooth as all those gerund pick-up lines you hear at the bar.  i.e. - Unsuccessful!

So for anyone that may be wondering, 'What the hell is a gerund?' allow me to explain.  A gerund is a noun that is derived from a verb which ends in –ing.  Here are some examples: 

1.    I like reading.   

2.    Reading is fun. 

In the first sentence, structured Subject–Verb–Object, reading is a noun that acts as the sentences direct object.  In the second sentence reading is again a noun, but this time acts as the subject in the Subject–Verb–Adjective arrangement.  Perhaps the only thing less exciting than teaching gerunds is sitting there having to learn them.  But don't listen to me, I have a personal bias against gerunds.  They've never lent me a helping hand.  You hear about all these other people getting lucky using gerunds.  I guess I'm still waiting patiently for that right gerund to come along. 

Which Gerund Is He Using?
Photo by: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Gerund Pick-up Lines at the Bar (Good Luck!)

• Do you feel like going back to my place?
• I can't help falling in love with you! 
• Showing off is what God did when he made you.
• Smoking is hazardous to your health... and baby, you're killing me!
• Do you have a band-aid?  Because I just scraped my knee falling for you.
• You must like dancing with the devil, because you're hot as hell.
• Can I buy you a drink or do you just want the money? (No gerund, I just think that's funny.)

Pop Quiz!

How many gerunds can you find in this post?  I think I have the answer, but maybe I'm wrong.