Partner or Problem? Guiding Student Writers in the Age of AI

As generative AI tools become increasingly accessible, K-12 educators face both exciting opportunities and significant challenges in teaching writing. This session explores how AI can be used to strengthen, not supplant, students’ brainstorming, drafting, and revision processes. Grounded in practical classroom examples, the presentation will demonstrate how teachers can use AI to scaffold brainstorming, differentiate writing supports, and provide targeted feedback while still maintaining high expectations for student authorship.  Participants will learn strategies for designing writing tasks that prioritize critical thinking, require students to explain how they used AI, incorporate simple prompt-engineering techniques to support stronger writing, and make AI use an intentional part of the writing process rather than a shortcut around it. The session will also address common concerns about cheating, plagiarism, and the ethical use of AI, especially when it comes to writing. Teachers will leave with concrete strategies and practical implementation ideas that enhance student creativity while leveraging AI as a thought partner.