Five Ways Teachers Can Use ChatGPT

This is Part 2 of a 5-part series on the implications of Generative AI on the future of education. Part 1 was a call to public educators to start paying attention to AI in schools. 

What is ChatGPT?

Generative AI is any artificial intelligence that creates new and original content. OpenAI is the company behind the trending application ChatGPT, which has gained millions of users since its launch in November 2022. OpenAI consists of three APIs (application programming interface):

• GPT-3—Generates natural language text from user-generated prompts
• DALL-E—Creates and edits original images from user-generated, text-based prompts
• CodeX—Translates natural language to programming code

GPT-3 is the technology driving ChatGPT. The GPT stands for "Generative Pre-trained Transformer." ChatGPT was trained using a massive human-created text dataset and uses that knowledge to create original, human-like text-based responses when given a prompt. It works similarly to the more common next-word prediction you may experience with texting, Gmail, and Google Docs, but it uses over 175 billion parameters in its predictive algorithm to produce rich and complete texts. ChatGPT does not actively scour the Internet for information when a prompt is entered, it uses what it learned from the dataset to generate a response. 

ChatGPT creates natural language, text-based responses in a conversational, back-and-forth "chat" with the user. Think of it as an intelligent writing assistant like the AI navigation assistant in your car or an AI chatbot like Alexa or Siri.

What to know before you consider using ChatGPT

Users should consider whether ChatGPT is the right technology tool for their needs before trying it out. Here are some things to know before you dive in.

It can be slow.

ChatGPT is currently offered for free, and because of high demand, there are many times when ChatGPT is unavailable or slow with responses. OpenAI has added a feature that allows users to be notified when demand is low and they are more likely to get on. Once on the site, there is a limit to the number of prompts you can give in an hour and a day.

It collects personal information.

ChatGPT is not SOPPA or COPPA compliant. OpenAI (the company behind ChatGPT) collects user data and ChatGPT requires that users create an account and log in when they use the platform. Based on OpenAI’s privacy policy, ChatGPT may share user data with third-party vendors, law enforcement, affiliates, and other users, and therefore violates the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and Student Online Privacy Protection Act (SOPPA). ChatGPT should not be used by children under 13, and students aged 14–18 should not be compelled by teachers to create accounts and use the platform. 

It is not always reliable.

OpenAI lists several limitations for users of the platform:

• ChatGPT sometimes writes plausible-sounding, but incorrect or even nonsensical answers. Rather than omit information, ChatGPT will try to answer the prompt to the best of its ability. It will sometimes insert “made-up” information that isn’t true. For example, one user found that when asking ChatGPT to include citations for sources, the AI fabricated sources that do not exist. In other examples, ChatGPT created a high-quality math word problem, but gave a credible-sounding—but incorrect answer—to the problem. 
• ChatPGT may sometimes respond with harmful instructions or exhibit bias in its answer. Since it is based on human-generated information, it may reflect bias or inaccuracies of the human authors. 
• Instead of asking clarifying questions, ChatGPT might guess about the user's intent if the prompt is ambiguous. This could produce answers that seem plausible, but do not answer the user's intended question. 
• ChatGPT is not connected to the Internet and has limited knowledge of events after 2021. 

Responses get better with higher-quality prompts.

Have you ever heard the phrase, "You get out of it what you put into it?" This is true for ChatGPT as well. Consider this example:

Good Prompt: "Write a short essay about the water cycle."

Better prompt: "Write a short essay that is an introduction to the water cycle that a 12-year-old can understand. Include a list of key vocabulary terms at the end."

Best prompt: "Write an essay that is an introduction to the water cycle. It needs to be understood by a 12-year-old and takes about 10 minutes to read. Include a list of key vocabulary terms. Include 5 reading comprehension questions. Create a Spanish version as well."

As prompts get better, the output can also get better. 

Five Ways Teachers Can Use ChatGPT

If you're still with me and interested in trying it out, there are some powerful ways teachers can use this tool to improve their workflow, efficiency, and effectiveness. In each case, I provide examples of actual prompts I have tried. 

When using ChatGPT, remember that your experience, ability to discern, and personal voice remain relevant. Instead of copying and pasting the AI-created content verbatim, it's best to use it as a starting point for editing, adding to, and creating your own best version. All responses should be checked for accuracy. You should also consider if this is the right tool for the job. When using AI to generate a response, remember that even with your edits, you are starting with a voice that isn't your own. 

1. Lesson Planning

Create course, unit, and lesson-level learning objectives.

Create learning objectives for a lesson on information literacy for a 4th grade class
Here are some learning objectives for a lesson on information literacy for a 4th grade class:

1. Students will understand the importance of using reliable sources when conducting research. 
2. Students will learn how to distinguish between credible and non-credible sources. 
3. Students will be able to use different types of sources, such as books, websites, and newspapers, to gather information. 
4. Students will learn how to take notes and organize information in a way that is easy to understand and recall. 
5. Students will understand how to use keywords and phrases to search for information effectively. 
6. Students will be able to cite sources correctly using a given citation format. 
7. Students will be able to use information they gather to support their own ideas and arguments. 
8. Students will be able to evaluate the relevance, credibility, and bias of a given source. 

It's important to note that this would be a general guide for the learning objectives and it might differ based on what your class curriculum and lesson plans might look like. You can definitely tailor it to the level of your class and what you want to achieve from the lesson.

Turn each of those learning objectives into a complete lesson.

Design an introductory lesson for objective 1
Here's an example of an introductory lesson for objective 1: understanding the importance of using reliable sources when conducting research:

Lesson Title: "Where Can We Find Reliable Information?"

Objective: Students will understand the importance of using reliable sources when conducting research.

Materials:

• Chart paper and markers 
• Handouts with examples of credible and non-credible sources 
• Computer or device with internet access (if possible) 

Introduction:

• Begin the lesson by asking students if they have ever searched for information online or used a book to research a topic. Allow them to share their experiences.
• Explain to students that when we research something, it's important to make sure we are using reliable sources to gather information. Not all sources of information are created equal, and some can be inaccurate or misleading.

Create the materials needed for the lesson.

Create the handout you described above 

Sure! Here's an example of a handout that provides examples of credible and non-credible sources:

Examples of Credible Sources:

1. Books from a library 
2. Websites from government agencies (ex. NASA, the FDA) 
3. Websites from universities (ex. Harvard, Stanford) 
4. Articles from reputable news sources (ex. New York Times, Washington Post) 
5. Peer-reviewed journal articles 

Examples of Non-Credible Sources:

1. Personal blogs 
2. Wikipedia (without checking sources) 
3. Websites with biased information 
4. Social media posts or messages 
5. Websites that end with .com or info (not always credible) 

Note: As the content of this handout may not be accurate in every case, it would be best to use this as a guide rather than an absolute rule.

Differentiate the lesson for students with learning differences.

Give me suggestions how to differentiate this lesson for a student with dyslexia

Differentiating instruction for students with dyslexia can involve making adjustments to the materials, methods, and strategies used in the lesson. Here are a few suggestions on how to differentiate the lesson on understanding the importance of using reliable sources when conducting research for a student with dyslexia:

1. Provide visual aids: Use graphic organizers, diagrams, and other visual aids to support the student's understanding of the material. This can also help break up large blocks of text and make the information more accessible. 
2. Use audio and digital resources: Provide the student with access to digital text-to-speech software or have them listen to recordings of the information. This can help them access the content more effectively. 
3. Provide accommodations: Provide the student with accommodations such as extra time, a quiet workspace, or a reduced number of tasks to complete. This can help reduce stress and anxiety and make it easier for the student to focus on the content. 
4. Simplify the language: Provide simplified language versions of the handout examples and instruction, or use synonyms of the difficult vocabulary. 
5. Use Multi-sensory instruction: Use a variety of teaching methods such as visual, auditory, and kinesthetic to present the information. This can help the student make connections between the material and their own experiences. 
6. Use color-coding: Use color-coding to help the student distinguish between credible and non-credible sources. For example, you can use red and green to indicate credible and non-credible sources respectively.

2. Create Class Materials

Create test and quiz questions. (Remember, it doesn't always have the correct answer).

Create a 5 question multiple choice style quiz to test if students read the first half of Romeo and Juliet

Sure, here is a five-question multiple-choice quiz to test students' comprehension of the first half of Romeo and Juliet:

1. Who does Romeo first confess his love for in the play?
a. Juliet
b. Rosaline
c. Cordelia
d. Ophelia

2. What does the Prince declare will happen to the next person who starts a fight in Verona?
a. They will be exiled from the city
b. They will be put in prison
c. They will be put to death
d. They will be heavily fined

3. Who does Romeo meet at the Capulet's party and fall in love with?
a. Juliet
b. Rosaline
c. Cordelia
d. Ophelia

Develop original discussion or writing prompts.

Create a funny writing prompt scenario using Mo Willems characters that requires the reader to make a decision about a moral dilemma

Here is a funny writing prompt scenario using Mo Willems characters:

Pigeon, Elephant, and Piggie are all playing at the park one day when they come across a lost wallet. Pigeon is convinced they should keep the wallet and spend all the money inside, while Elephant and Piggie think they should try to find the rightful owner.

As they debate what to do, a group of shady-looking characters start lurking around, obviously interested in the wallet. The trio must decide quickly - do they keep the wallet and possibly get into trouble, or do they do the right thing and try to find the owner, even if it means potentially getting into a dangerous situation?

What will they choose? It's up to the reader to decide in this moral dilemma.

Write directions for a learning activity.

Provide instructions for students to submit a google doc assignment in Schoology
Here are the general steps for submitting a Google Doc assignment in Schoology: 

1. Open the Schoology assignment that requires you to submit a Google Doc. 
2. Click on the "Add Google Drive" button in the assignment submission area. 
3. If prompted, sign in to your Google account. 
4. Select the Google Doc that you would like to submit from your Google Drive. 
5. Click on the "Select" button. 
6. Make sure that the Google Doc is in the correct format and that it contains all the required information. 
7. Click on the "Submit" button. 
8. You should see a confirmation that your submission was successful. 

Note: It's always good to double check the assignment requirements and make sure that the document is shared with the appropriate people if it is a group assignment.

Also please note that these steps can change depending on the school, teacher or district. But above steps are general overview of submitting google doc assignments in Schoology

Create word problems for math and science.

Design a math word problem that requires long division and give the solution
Here is a math word problem that requires the use of long division:

"At a store, pencils cost $0.75 each and notebooks cost $2.50 each. If you have $15 to spend and you want to buy an equal number of pencils and notebooks, how many of each can you buy?"

To solve this problem, we can use long division to find out how many notebooks we can buy, given a certain number of pencils. We know that the total cost of the pencils and notebooks is $15 and that the cost of a pencil is $0.75 and the cost of a notebook is $2.50.

First, we can find out how many pencils we can buy by dividing the total cost by the cost of a pencil:

$15 ÷ $0.75 = 20

So we can buy 20 pencils.

Next, we can find out how many notebooks we can buy by dividing the total cost by the cost of a notebook...

Write a script for a podcast or video.

Write a monologue for a 1 minute instructional video on how parents can use screen time to block YouTube on their child's iPad
"Hello parents! Are you looking for a way to control the amount of screen time your child has on their iPad? And specifically to block YouTube? I understand it can be difficult to keep track of what your child is doing online, especially when it comes to social media and video-sharing platforms like YouTube.

The good news is that there are a few simple steps you can take to block YouTube and limit your child's screen time on their iPad.

First, you'll need to go into the settings on your child's iPad and open the 'Screen Time' option. This will allow you to set limits on the amount of time your child can spend on their device each day.

Next, you can go to the 'Always Allowed' section and select the apps that you want to be excluded from the daily limit. This way, your child will always be able to use these apps, even if they've hit their screen time limit for the day.

Finally, you can also use the 'Content & Privacy Restrictions' option to block specific apps, websites, and content that you don't want your child to have access to. This is where you can block YouTube and set other restrictions.

3. Feedback and Assessment

Design a rubric.

Design a 4 point rubric for a 4th grade students designed to assess their understanding of claim, evidence, and reasoning in an argumentative essay
Sure, here's a sample 4-point rubric that could be used to assess a 4th grade student's understanding of claim, evidence, and reasoning in an argumentative essay:

Claim:

4 points: The student clearly states a claim and it is well-aligned with the topic of the essay.

3 points: The student states a claim, but it is not fully aligned with the topic of the essay.

2 points: The student states a claim, but it is not clear or is not related to the topic of the essay.

1 point: The student does not state a clear claim.

Evidence:

4 points: The student provides multiple pieces of relevant and specific evidence to support their claim.

3 points: The student provides some relevant evidence to support their claim, but it is not specific enough.

2 points: The student provides some evidence to support their claim, but it is not relevant or specific.

1 point: The student does not provide any evidence to support their claim.

Give general feedback on copied/pasted text.

Give me feedback on this essay: "The American Civil War, which lasted from 1861 to 1865, was one of the most significant events in the country's history. The war was fought
Overall, your essay does a good job of outlining the various causes of the American Civil War. You've identified some of the key economic, political, and social factors that led to the outbreak of the war, and you've provided specific examples to support your points.

One area that you might want to expand on a bit more is the issue of slavery and its role in the Civil War. You've mentioned that it was an important factor, but you might consider delving a bit deeper into the ways in which slavery contributed to the growing divide between the North and the South. Additionally, you might consider discussing the various debates and political struggles surrounding slavery in the years leading up to the war, such as the Missouri Compromise or the Compromise of 1850. This will help to provide a more detailed understanding of the role that slavery played in the outbreak of the war.

Another suggestion would be to be more specific in the causes you mention. For example, instead of just writing "the economic divide between North and South," it could be more informative to explain how the divide arose in specific, what were the factors and how it escalated.

Provide a specific score and feedback based on a copied/pasted rubric.

Based on the given rubric, I would score this essay as follows:

Category:

• Clarity of Purpose: 3 (Mastery) 
• Organization: 3 (Mastery) 
• Support: 3 (Mastery) 
• Conventions: 3 (Mastery) 

Overall, this essay demonstrates a clear understanding of the causes of the Civil War and presents a well-organized argument with detailed evidence to support its main ideas. The essay maintains a clear focus on the specific issues and positions described in the writing prompt and effectively previews the main arguments in the thesis. The body paragraphs are fully developed and maintain a logical flow of ideas, and the topic sentences are clearly stated. The essay also effectivelv uses evidence to support its main ideas and explains how the evidence supports the author's claims. Finally, the essay demonstrates a strong command of language and writing conventions.

Give suggestions for improvement with examples.

Suggest how the essay might be improved, providing specific examples from the text with samples of improvement
There are a few ways that the essay might be improved:

1. The essay could further contextualize the causes of the Civil War by providing more historical background information. For example, the essay could explain the economic, social, and political differences between the North and the South that contributed to the tensions between the two regions.

Sample improvement: "The North was industrialized and had a more urban population, while the South was primarily agricultural and relied on slave labor to work the plantations.

These economic differences were accompanied by social and political differences as well.

The North was more progressive and favored abolition, while the South was more conservative and defended the institution of slavery. These differences contributed to the tensions between the two regions and ultimately led to the outbreak of the Civil War."

2. The essay could provide more specific examples to illustrate the main causes of the Civil War. For example, the essay could describe specific events or actions that led to the election of Abraham Lincoln or the southern states' decision to secede from the Union.

4. Differentiated Instruction

Create alternate versions of class materials.

Generate an article on volcanoes that can be read in about 10 minutes by a 12 year old student. Please include 5 comprehension questions at the end of the article. 

Volcanoes are geological wonders that have fascinated humans for centuries. They are mountains that form when molten rock called magma rises from deep inside the Earth and erupts through the surface. Volcanoes can be found all over the world, from the tropical islands of Hawaii to the frozen glaciers of Antarctica.

There are three main types of volcanoes: shield, cinder cone, and composite. Shield volcanoes have gentle slopes and are formed by a steady flow of fluid magma. They are the largest type of volcano, and Mauna Loa in Hawaii is one of the most famous examples.

Cinder cone volcanoes have steep sides and are formed by explosive eruptions of ash and rock fragments. Composite volcanoes, also known as stratovolcanoes, have steep slopes and are formed by a combination of explosive eruptions and steady lava flows. Mount Fuji in Japan is an example of a composite volcano.

Volcanoes can be active, dormant, or extinct. Active volcanoes are currently erupting or showing signs of imminent eruption. Dormant volcanoes are not currently erupting, but have erupted in the past and may erupt again in the future. Extinct volcanoes have not erupted in many thousands of years and are unlikely to ever erupt again.

When a volcano erupts, it can release ash, gas, and molten rock into the air. Lava flows can destroy everything in their path, and ash clouds can travel for thousands of miles.

Translate.

Please create a version of this in Spanish
Los volcanes son maravillas geológicas que han fascinado a los humanos durante siglos.

Son montañas que se forman cuando la roca fundida llamada magma sube desde el interior de la Tierra y erupciona a través de la superficie. Los volcanes se pueden encontrar en todo el mundo, desde las islas tropicales de Hawái hasta los glaciares

congelados de la Antártida.

Existen tres tipos principales de volcanes: los volcanes de escudo, los volcanes cónicos de ceniza y los volcanes compuestos. Los volcanes de escudo tienen laderas suaves y se forman a través de un flujo continuo de magma fluido. Son el tipo más grande de volcán, y el Mauna Loa en Hawái es uno de los ejemplos más famosos. Los volcanes cónicos de ceniza tienen laderas empinadas y se forman a través de erupciones explosivas de ceniza y fragmentos de roca. Los volcanes compuestos, también conocidos como estratovolcanes, tienen laderas empinadas y se forman a través de una combinación de erupciones explosivas y flujos de lava constantes. El Monte Fuji en Japón es un ejemplo de un volcán compuesto.

Los volcanes pueden ser activos, dormidos o extintos. Los volcanes activos están actualmente en erupción o muestran signos de una erupción inminente. Los volcanes...

Level.

now create two addtional versions that cover the same information. One for lower level readers (about 8 years old) and one for higher level readers (about 15 years old)
Lower Level Version:

Volcanoes are big mountains that shoot out hot rocks and ash. They are made from the hot melted rock called magma that comes from deep inside the Earth. There are three types of volcanoes: shield, cinder cone, and composite. Shield volcanoes are the biggest and have a wide bottom and gentle slopes. Cinder cone volcanoes are small and steep and made of cinders. Composite volcanoes are common and have many layers of rock and ash. The Mount St. Helens volcano in America erupted in 1980 and it was very big and dangerous. People who study volcanoes are called volcanologists.

Questions:
What is a volcano made of?
How many types of volcanoes are there?
What is the shape of shield volcano?
What is a cinder cone volcano made of?
What was the name of the volcano that erupted in 1980 in America?

Higher Level Version:

Volcanoes are geological...

Note that in this example, ChatGPT not only changed the complexity of the text but also created differentiated versions of the comprehension questions. 

5. Communication

Create emails to students.

Write an encouraging email to a freshman high school student who isn't turning any of their work in on time
Subject: A message of encouragement

Dear [Student],

I hope this email finds you well. I have noticed that you have been struggling to turn in your assignments on time, and I want you to know that I am here to support you.

I understand that high school can be a challenging time, and it can be easy to get overwhelmed with all the new responsibilities and expectations. But I want you to know that you are capable of succeeding and achieving your goals, no matter how difficult things may seem.

One of the most important things you can do to get back on track is to take control of your time. This means setting aside dedicated time each day to work on your assignments, and creating a schedule that works for you. It can also be helpful to break down large projects into smaller, more manageable tasks, and to tackle one task at a time.

It's also important to remember that it is okay to ask for help when you need it. If you are struggling with a particular assignment or subject, don't hesitate to reach out to your teachers or a tutor for extra support. We are here to support you and help you succeed.

Role-play class scenarios.

Role play a scenario where a teacher talks to a sarcastic student about getting to class on time
Sure, I can role play a scenario where a teacher talks to a sarcastic student about getting to class on time. Here is an example:

Teacher: "Good morning, John. I noticed you're running a bit late today."

Student: "Good morning, Ms. Smith. Wow, you really know how to make a guy feel special."

Teacher: "I understand that sarcasm, John, but I'm serious. You're consistently late to class, and it's disrupting the learning environment for your peers."

Student: "Sorry, Ms. Smith. I'll make sure to set my alarm clock for an earlier time."

Teacher: "John, I appreciate the apology, but I'm not sure a simple apology is going to fix this problem. I'd like to talk to you more about it after class and come up with a plan to make sure you're on time in the future."

Student: "Sure thing, Ms. Smith. I'll make sure to bring my calendar and a pencil to jot down some notes."

Write letters to parents.

Write a letter to the parents of 8th graders introducing myself and welcoming them to a new school year. In the letter, be sure to include my grading scale (common 10% scale) and my policy for late work and retakes
Dear 8th Grade Parents,

I hope this letter finds you well. My name is [Name] and I am excited to be your child's teacher for the upcoming school year.

I am passionate about education and I believe in creating a safe and inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive. I am looking forward to getting to know each and every one of my students and helping them reach their full potential.

In terms of my grading scale, I use the common 10% scale. This means that a 90% or above is considered an A, 80-89% is a B, 70-79% is a C, 60-69% is a D, and anything below 60% is an F. I will be providing regular updates on your child's progress through my online learning platform.

I also have a policy for late work and retakes. Late work will be accepted within a week of the original due date, however, a 10% deduction will be taken for each day the work is late.

In regards to retakes, they will be offered to any student who did not achieve a passing grade on an assessment with the appropriate time frame and with evidence of the student completing additional work and/or retaking

There are many more potential uses for ChatGPT. Considering the information above, teachers should consider which activities this tool can improve.