8.1 Infinitives—Overview

COMPREHENSION Based on the reading, write T for true or F for false.

1. The Carnegie family left Scotland because they saw more economic possibilities in the United States. 2. When Carnegie was young, he had no help from anyone. 3. Carnegie encouraged rich people to help others.

THINK ABOUT IT Discuss the questions with a partner or in a small group.

1. Carnegie believed that “education is the key to a successful life.” Is this always true, in your view? Explain. 2. Do you agree that rich people have a “moral obligation” to help others? Give reasons for your opinion.

An infinitive is to + the base form of the verb (e.g., to go). An infinitive can be used in the following ways.

EXAMPLES EXPLANATION

Carnegie wanted to help others. after certain verbs

He wanted rich people to give away their money. after the object of a verb I’m happy to help. after certain adjectives It’s important to help others. after certain expressions that begin with it To help others makes a person feel good. as the subject of a sentence Do you volunteer your time in order to help others? to show purpose He’s old enough to help. She’s too young to help. after expressions with too and enough

Notes: 1. In a sentence with two infinitives connected by and or or, the second to is usually omitted. I want to make money and help others. You can choose to volunteer time or donate money. 2. Put not before an infinitive to make it negative. Carnegie decided not to die rich. 3. For a passive infinitive, we use to be + past participle. Everyone wants to be given an opportunity to succeed.

EXERCISE 1 Listen to the information about a teacher in Niger. Write T for true or F for false. 8.2

1. Leslie Natzke first went to Niger on vacation. 2. Girls in Niger often got married very young. 3. Expanding Lives encouraged girls from Niger to start businesses in the United States.