In a historic race between humans and machines, Chinese robots took on the world’s first humanoid half-marathon. Despite their advanced technology, they struggled to keep up, finishing far behind their human competitors.
Let’s read the article to learn more about how the race unfolded, what it means for humanoid robots, and whether machines will ever match human endurance.
https://edition.cnn.com/2025/04/19/asia/china-first-humanoid-robot-half-marathon-intl-hnk/index.html
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does the verb “bested” mean? “And the chief of the winning team said their robot – though bested by the humans in this particular race – was a match for similar models from the West, at a time when the race to perfect humanoid technology is hotting up” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
- What does the phrase “gaining ground” mean? “And while AI models are fast gaining ground, sparking concern for everything from security to the future of work, Saturday’s race suggested that humans still at least have the upper hand when it comes to running.” Use it in your own sentence.
- What is the meaning of the verb phrase “pitted against“? “The robots were pitted against 12,000 human contestants, running side by side with them in a fenced-off lane.“Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
Discussion Questions:
- What do you think about robots joining humans in a half-marathon? Do you think they’ll ever catch up, or is endurance one race where humans will always have the advantage?
- Do you think we will we see more sports where robots go head-to-head with humans in the future? Why or why not?
- Do you think robots should be allowed to compete with humans in official sports events? Why or why not?
- Have you ever taken on a half-marathon? If you have, how did you do? If not, would you ever train for one?