Reading text: Robot teachers If you think of the jobs robots could never do, you would probably put doctors and teachers
at the top of the list. It’s easy to imagine robot cleaners and factory workers, but some jobs
need human connection and creativity. But are we underestimating what robots can do? In
some cases, they already perform better than doctors at diagnosing illness. Also, some
patients might feel more comfortable sharing personal information with a machine than a
person. Could there be a place for robots in education after all?
British education expert Anthony Seldon thinks so. And he even has a date for the robot
takeover of the classroom: 2027. He predicts robots will do the main job of transferring
information and teachers will be like assistants. Intelligent robots will read students’ faces,
movements and maybe even brain signals. Then they will adapt the information to each
student. It’s not a popular opinion and it’s unlikely robots will ever have empathy and the
ability to really connect with humans like another human can.
One thing is certain, though. A robot teacher is better than no teacher at all. In some parts of
the world, there aren’t enough teachers and 9–16 per cent of children under the age of 14
don’t go to school. That problem could be partly solved by robots because they can teach
anywhere and won’t get stressed, or tired, or move somewhere for an easier, higher-paid job.
Those negative aspects of teaching are something everyone agrees on. Teachers all over the
world are leaving because it is a difficult job and they feel overworked. Perhaps the question
is not ‘Will robots replace teachers?’ but ‘How can robots help teachers?’ Office workers can
use software to do things like organise and answer emails, arrange meetings and update
calendars. Teachers waste a lot of time doing non-teaching work, including more than 11
hours a week marking homework. If robots could cut the time teachers spend marking
homework and writing reports, teachers would have more time and energy for the parts of the
job humans do best.
Task 1
Are the sentences true or false?
1. Most jobs seem as if they can be done by robots or computers.
2. Many experts agree robots will replace teachers by 2027.
3. One advantage of robot teachers is that they don’t need to rest.
Writing
Task 2.
⦁ What restaurant in place you live do you recommend?
⦁ Why is it a good place?
⦁ What is your opinion about eating out?
⦁ What food do you prefer most: homemade or take-away?
⦁ What are the eating habits in your country?
⦁ Are there any eating rules in your family?
1. False. In the reading text, it is mentioned that there are jobs that require human connection and creativity, which suggests that not all jobs can be done by robots or computers.
2. True. British education expert Anthony Seldon predicts that robots will take over the main job of transferring information in classrooms by 2027.
3. True. The reading text mentions that robots won't get stressed, tired, or move somewhere for an easier, higher-paid job, implying that they don't need to rest.
Task 2:
1. I would recommend the "XYZ Restaurant" in my neighborhood. It is a good place because it offers a wide variety of dishes, including both local and international cuisine. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance and a friendly staff that provides excellent service.
2. In my opinion, eating out can be a great way to socialize with friends and family. It allows us to try different cuisines and experience new flavors. Additionally, dining at a restaurant gives me a break from cooking and cleaning, providing a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
3. Personally, I prefer homemade food. I find it healthier and more satisfying as I have control over the ingredients and cooking methods. However, I do enjoy occasional take-away meals for convenience or to try different types of cuisine.
4. Eating habits in my country vary. Some people prefer traditional homemade meals, while others enjoy eating out or ordering take-away food. It also depends on individuals' lifestyles and schedules. However, family meals are still considered important and are often shared together.
5. In my family, we have some eating rules, such as no phones or distractions at the dining table. We believe in sitting together as a family, having conversations, and enjoying our meals without any distractions. It helps in building stronger family bonds and promotes better communication. Additionally, we try to eat healthy and balanced meals, including a variety of fruits, vegetables, and proteins.