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A Virtual Robot Learns More From a Warning

The system was tested in computer simulations.

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Technology news editorial illustration for FLEX Helps a Virtual Robot Interpret Broader Instructions

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Source: MIT News, 2026-11-09.

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Try 2 questions about this story, then explain one idea in your own words. Check the text whenever you need to.

In this lesson: Identify the test setting and how people gave instructions.

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Read and understand · 1/2Where did the tests take place?

Read the answer and explanation

In computer simulations. The first paragraph explicitly identifies simulations.

Clue: MIT and New York University researchers tested a system called FLEX in computer simulations. People typed instructions for a virtual robot arm.

Read and understand · 2/2How did people give instructions?

Read the answer and explanation

By typing. People typed instructions for the virtual arm.

Clue: MIT and New York University researchers tested a system called FLEX in computer simulations. People typed instructions for a virtual robot arm.

Grammar in this story: An additional category with too

other electronics too

Too means also: the response extends beyond the laptop to additional electronics.

Your turn

Describe one warning and the virtual robot’s response.

See one possible answer

A person warned about spilling coffee on a laptop. The virtual robot also avoided other electronics in the simulation.

Your answer can be different. Give a reason and use your own words.

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