Each helping verb is actually a two-part package. There's the helping verb itself, and then there's the effect that the helping verb has on the verb that follows it.
Look at the sentences below. In each of them, the helping verb is a form of progressive be (underlined). What effect does progressive be have on the verb that follows it?
The children were working hard.
I am considering a new job offer.
Nothing was limiting his development.
Many new advances are emerging.
Sam is watching his favorite TV show.
You can see that the verb after the form of be always has -ing added to its base. This -ing form of the verb is referred to as the present participle in traditional grammar.
Quick tip 36.1
When the helping verb is progressive be, the next verb always has -ing added to its base form. Example: is sleeping. The -ing verb form is called the present participle.
Test yourself 36.1
Each of the following sentences has a form of the helping verb be. Underline the be verb and the -ing ending of the following verb.
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