Listening

Warm Up

Helpful Words and Phrases

Listen and repeat.

  1. humanoid
    • ex. The scientist built a humanoid robot that had a face and two arms.
  2. demonstrate
    • ex. At the cooking class, the chef demonstrated how to make pasta.
  3. backflip
    • ex. During the show, the acrobat amazed everyone by backflipping in the air.
  4. unassisted
    • ex. The little girl rode her bike unassisted after practicing for weeks.
  5. step up (something)
    • ex. The company plans to step up production to meet the high demand for its new product.

Article

Read the article below and answer your tutor's questions.

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The first World Humanoid Robot Games opened in Beijing, China, on August 14. During the opening ceremony, humanoid robots danced hip-hop, demonstrated complex Chinese exercises, and played musical instruments. They also played sports like soccer and boxing. Some robots even backflipped and cheered like real players. The event lasted for three days. Tickets cost between 180 yuan (about ¥3,700) and 580 yuan (about ¥11,900).

More than 500 humanoid robots in 280 teams competed. These teams come from 16 countries, including the U.S., Germany, and Japan. The main competitions began on August 15, with the robots competing in soccer, running, and boxing. One robot scored a goal after trying a few times. Another robot fell but stood up unassisted. However, one robot fell during a fashion show and needed help to leave the stage.

At the same time, robots walked with human models, wearing hats and clothes. China has decided to step up its work in building humanoid robots with artificial intelligence. According to a Beijing officer, every robot at the event is helping to create history.

This material was based on an article by The Associated Press.
Photo Credits: The Associated Press

Discussion

Choose a topic and discuss the questions with your tutor.

Humanoid Robots

  • Do you think robots should look like people? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • Do you think using humanoid robots in public events like competitions is a good or a bad idea? Why? Discuss.
  • If you could design a humanoid robot, what special human-like thing would it do? Why? Discuss.

Robots in Music and Sports

  • In your opinion, should robots be allowed to play with humans in sports? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • In your opinion, is it necessary to develop robots that play musical instruments? Why do you think so? Discuss.
  • Do you think robots can replace humans in sports or music? Why or why not? Discuss.