B1 – Intermediate
In today’s world, robots are no longer just a part of sci-fi stories—they’re here, right now, impacting how we live. From simplifying daily tasks to working side by side with us, these machines are reshaping our routines and the way we connect with the world.
Listen to this audio and read the transcript about advanced robotics in our lives.
https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/robots-in-our-lives-level-3/
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “throughout the ages” mean? “A new exhibition in London charts humanity’s fascination for robots throughout the ages – one model at the exhibition dates back to the 16th century. Almost three meters tall, Cygan, a celebrity robot of the fifties, is the display’s centerpiece.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does the word “enslave“ mean in this sentence, “Ben Russel, the curator, commented on people’s fear of robots ‘turning into terrifying things that enslave us all’ – he thinks that it is quite natural to be afraid of them, but he sees the chances of it actually happening as slim.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does the phrase “the chances of something happening as slim“ mean, “Ben Russel, the curator, commented on people’s fear of robots ‘turning into terrifying things that enslave us all’ – he thinks that it is quite natural to be afraid of them, but he sees the chances of it actually happening as slim.” Use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What would society be like if robots took over our jobs?
- How are robots generally perceived? Are they seen more as helpful or potentially concerning? Elaborate.
- What could be some challenges or benefits of having humanoid robots in our homes?
- If you had a robot, what would you like it to do?