Read about Ireland’s culture and history, then practise using gerunds and infinitives correctly.
Read the text carefully, then answer the questions below.
Ireland is an island on the western edge of Europe. It is divided into two parts: the Republic of Ireland, which is an independent country, and Northern Ireland, which belongs to the United Kingdom. People often call Ireland “the Emerald Isle” because of its bright green countryside, shaped by mild temperatures and frequent rain.
Ireland has two official languages: English and Irish (also called Gaeilge). Although most people speak English in their daily lives, the Irish language is taught in every school, and there are areas in the west of the country, known as the Gaeltacht, where Irish is still the main language of the community.
The Irish are famous for their love of storytelling. For centuries, people gathered around fires to listen to tales of heroes, fairies and ancient kings. This tradition has produced some of the world’s greatest writers, including Oscar Wilde, James Joyce and Samuel Beckett, all of whom won international recognition for their work.
Music is another important part of Irish culture. Traditional Irish music uses instruments such as the fiddle, the tin whistle and the bodhrán, a type of frame drum. Many young people in Ireland enjoy learning to play these instruments, and traditional music sessions in pubs are still a popular way to spend an evening.
Tourism plays a major role in Ireland’s economy. Visitors come from all over the world to see the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, to explore the lively streets of Dublin, and to experience the wild beauty of the Atlantic coast. Many tourists also hope to visit ancient sites such as Newgrange, a 5,000-year-old passage tomb that is older than the Egyptian pyramids.
Complete each sentence by choosing the correct gerund or infinitive form. All sentences are about Ireland.
A gerund (verb + -ing) is used after certain verbs like enjoy, avoid, mind, finish, suggest, keep, imagine, practise.
An infinitive (to + verb) is used after verbs like want, decide, hope, plan, agree, refuse, learn, promise.
Example: Many tourists enjoy visiting the Cliffs of Moher. | We decided to travel to Dublin.
1 Many young Irish people enjoy traditional instruments.
2 Tourists often decide the Cliffs of Moher.
3 Irish children learn the Irish language at school.
4 Would you mind me more about Irish history?
5 The guide suggested along the coast for the best views.
6 We hope a traditional music session in a pub.
7 My family is planning to Ireland next summer.
8 You should avoid on narrow country roads at night.
9 She refused the traditional Irish stew because she is vegetarian.
10 I can’t imagine in Ireland without an umbrella!
Complete each sentence with the correct form of the verb in brackets: gerund (-ing) or infinitive (to + verb).
I want __________ (explore) Dublin. → I want to explore Dublin.
Write a paragraph (80–120 words) about what you would enjoy doing if you visited Ireland. Use at least four gerunds or infinitives.
I would enjoy visiting … | I would love to see … | I would avoid …-ing … | I hope to … | I imagine …-ing … | I plan to … | I would like to try …-ing …
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