The Future of AI

Curriculum Context

Subject: Technology
Grade Level: 11th Grade
Curriculum Area: Computer Science (aligned with CSTA Standards 9–12; specifically, "Impacts of Computing" and "Artificial Intelligence")

Key Learning Objective

Students will explore how artificial intelligence (AI) could impact major facets of the future, including careers, society, and ethical considerations in technology. They will also connect the rapid evolution of AI to real-world examples, demonstrating critical thinking and curiosity about the field.

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Lesson Outline

1. Introduction (0:30)

• Hook Question: "What’s one thing you already use daily that relies on artificial intelligence?"
  Raise hands for quick responses (examples: Google Search, Netflix recommendations, Siri, or facial recognition).

• Briefly explain AI to relate to students: "AI is the ability of machines and systems to mimic human intelligence. It’s changing the way we solve problems—from self-driving cars to diagnosing diseases!"

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2. AI’s Future Impact (1:00)

Micro Burst: Jobs of Tomorrow (0:30)

• Pose this bold scenario: "By the time you graduate college, over 85 million jobs may be impacted by AI. What might those careers be?"
• Slide Activity (group engagement): Show three impact areas—Healthcare, Education, Entertainment.
  Example Discussion Prompts:
  • Healthcare: "How might AI save lives in advanced surgeries?"
  • Education: "Could virtual tutors make learning easier and more personal someday?"
  • Entertainment: "What if AI writes the next blockbuster movie?"

AI and Ethics (0:30)

• Quickfire ‘Agree or Disagree’ Segment:
  • Should AI be allowed to make decisions for humans?
  • Do you trust AI to decide who gets a job or who wins a court case?
    Encourage students to stand and move to different sides of the classroom to represent their choice, triggering fast, thoughtful debate.

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3. Closing Reflection (0:30)

• 10-second wrap-up: "Here’s the takeaway: AI is powerful, but it’s up to humans—you!—to decide how it shapes our future."
• Exit Ticket: Write down one way you believe AI can improve the world positively.

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Materials Needed

• Projector for visual prompts (three quick slides: examples of AI applications in jobs, ethics scenario prompts).
• Post-it notes or notepaper for exit tickets.
• Classroom timer to stay on track!

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Assessment

• Evaluate participation during the ‘Agree or Disagree’ segment to informally gauge understanding of AI’s ethical dimensions.
• Review exit tickets to see if students can connect AI’s significance to real-world, future-oriented applications.

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Extensions (for Homework/Independent Study)

• Research a current event involving AI (self-driving cars, ChatGPT in the workplace, etc.) and write a 100-word summary on its potential future impact.
• Design a future job title that AI might create by 2040—what skills would the job require and what problems would it solve?

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Notes for Teachers

This lesson uses short, high-impact activities to actively engage 11th graders without overloading them. It balances awe-inspiring potential with ethical reflection, ensuring alignment with US educational frameworks like 21st-Century Skills (critical thinking, communication) and CSTA AI Literacy objectives.