Language skills development

Verb + object + infinitive

Verb + object + to-infinitive

New developments in computing are often designed to make something easier. These verbs are often used to describe such developments: allow let enable permit help Study these examples: 1. A GUI lets you point to icons and click a mouse button to execute a task. 2 A GUI allows you to use a computer without knowing any operating system commands.

3. The X Window System enables Unix- based computers to have a graphical look and feel. 4. Voice recognition software helps disabled users (to) access computers. Allow, enable and permit are used with this structure: verb + object + to-infinitive Let is used with this structure: verb + object + infinitive Help can be used with either structure.

Exercise 1. Translate the following sentences into Russian. Find the structure Verb + object + infinitive or Verb + object + to-infinitive.

1. Using Recycle Bin feature the user orders the computer to restore the files to their original location.

2. The Windows user interface permits the user to open more than one window at a time.

3. A graphical user interface allows the user to use a mouse to interact with the computer.

4. Double-clicking the mouse causes the program, file or folder represented by the icon to open in a rectangular box on the screen called a window.

5. The company declared the new processor to have been developed in time.

6. A special area called the system tray where icons are displayed lets you see what resident programs are continuously running in the background.

Exercise 2. Put the verb given in the brackets in the right form: to + infinitive or infinitive without to.

1. A user interface allows a user (interact) with a computer.

2. My Computer feature lets you (see) the resources on your computer.

3. Shift key enables you (type) in upper case.

4. The scientists predict molecular computers (become) widespread in the nearest future.

5. The court made Microsoft company (separate) Windows and Internet Explorer.

6. We noticed him (press) the RESET button.

7. I hear the computer (play) the music.

Exercise 3. Change the following sentences according to the example by using complex object. Translate them into Ukrainian.

Example: A gateway is an interface that enables dissimilar networks to communicate. – A gateway enables dissimilar networks to communicate.

1. Clicking on a command is the action which allows you to open a list of choices known as a menu.

2. StickyKeys is the feature that helps disabled people to operate two keys

1. simultaneously.

2. I watched how they were repairing the computer.

3. MouseKeys is the utility that enables you to use the numeric keypad to move the mouse pointer.

4. A touchscreen is the device that allows the user to select icons and commands by touching the display screen with their finger instead of using a mouse.