Spot AI Writing

Many teachers will use AI checking tools to spot if writing has been written by AI. Unfortunately, they are not so accurate. Here are a few additional ways to look for AI writing.

1. Em Dash (—) - Since there is not a key on the keyboard for this character, it is not easy to make. If you see it in student writing, ask them how they made it. (Option Shift -)
2. It's not only x, but also y - AI likes to negate then affirm a claim.
3. Odd-numbered lists - AI will make lists, usually in threes, but mostly in odd numbers.
4. Line breaks with emojis - AI likes to make bulleted lists, or make parts stand out, with emojis.
5. Writing seems off - lots of jargon
6. Exaggerations
7. Third-person comments

These are not failsafe. Teachers probably know their students' writing. 

But when in doubt, talk to the student. Tell them your concern.

I can spot AI writing instantly — Here's how you can too

Inclusive Questioning

Last week I subbed in the Grade 7 Math class. While I was going through a few problems, I made the mistake of asking a question of the entire class. 

Why was it a mistake?

Callahan, Samantha. preschoollearning1.jpg. 2013. Pics4Learning. 2 Jun 2025

When I was asking the students the questions, one student kept answering them. He was answering correctly, which was impressive, but what were the other 24 students doing while this was happening?

After this lesson, I started thinking back about how I used to handle this kind of situation when I was in the classroom full time. 

I thought that grouping students and having them talk within their groups would be good. Then I could call on a group and they would tell the class what they answered. Another way could be to pair students up and have them "turn and talk", but the issue here is time. 

What are the other students doing while a few are active?

Then today on my way home I heard this podcast that talked about how to make discussions better. Give it a listen.

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[Math Chat] 149: Common Mistakes That Shut Down Math Discussions (And What to Do Instead) #mathChat
https://podcastaddict.com/math-chat/episode/199233095 via @PodcastAddict