How is the underlined gerund phrase used in the sentence?

they heard the poodle's barking from the yard.

a.
direct object

b.
predicate nominative

c.
object of a preposition

d.
subject

In 3-5 complete sentences, throughly explain how the protagonists cultural background affects his or her actions and choices in your module one story? provide at least two specific details from the text to show how the protagonists cultural background affects his or hers actions and choices.