April 2026 Protocol Of the Month: AI Essay Outlines

In this month's blog post, AI is prominently used by both teacher and students.  The benefit of this method allows students to discern possible faulty/incomplete information provided by AI but also determine worthy information that should be included in the student's product. Make no mistake, students are ultimately responsible for the essay's content, but a helping AI hand may provide enough scaffolding to get each student off to a good start. 

USING TECH: AI ESSAY OUTLINES (Writing)
 
Description: Combining technology and paper pencil, AI essay outlines allow students to use technology to start the essay process but finishes it using paper and pencil. This activity is best used when students are familiar with essay writing.
 
Application: Use in any subject that requires formal writing products.
 
Process: Have topic for essay at the ready. Ask ChatGPT to create five prompts connected to the topic, selecting the best three.  Allow students to select which prompt to use. Give students permission to use an AI platform, such as ChatGPT, to create an outline that will guide them during the paper-pencil portion of the activity.  Tell students to be specific in their AI request, Create outline from (prompt)_____________________________________________ at  ___ grade level.  Once students’ complete task, require them to review the AI generated outline, looking for errors. Once completed, tell students to put away computers and begin writing using pencil and paper.  Remind students that assignment must be turned in with the AI generated outline attached at the end of class (and possibly handed back out the next class meeting.)  Extend the activity by asking students to use AI to generate an essay on the topic following the original paper and pencil directions.  Provide time for students to compare/contrast their essay to the AI generated one and discuss. 

Resources or for more information:
 Staake, J. (2024) ChatGPT for Teachers 20+ Tips, Ideas, Prompts, and More​ 
                             https://www.weareteachers.com/chatgpt-for-teachers/