Audience
Teachers and high school students. All student-facing items are intended to be school-appropriate (no 18+ resources).
Overview
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming teaching and learning. For educators, it can save time, enhance instruction, and support differentiation. For students, it unlocks exploration, feedback, and self-paced practice while also raising important conversations about academic integrity.
AI Tools for Educators
| Tool | Description | Classroom Use |
|---|---|---|
| ChatGPT (OpenAI) | Conversational AI to generate explanations, examples, quizzes, rubrics, and more. | Brainstorm lessons, model mathematical reasoning, create study guides. |
| Google Gemini | Generative AI integrated with Docs, Slides, and Gmail. | Draft emails, reword instructions, summarize readings, scaffold writing. |
| NotebookLM (Google Labs) | Summarizes teacher-uploaded materials into outlines, questions, and prompts. | Generate quizzes, study guides, and discussion starters from class content. |
| Pandoc | Universal document converter (Markdown, Word, PDF, LaTeX). | Turn AI-generated content into polished handouts or editable docs. |
| MagicSchool AI | Educator-focused AI toolkit for lesson plans, feedback, communication. | Generate outlines, parent emails, and differentiated activities. |
| Eduaide.ai | Teacher workspace for prompts, formative tasks, and resources. | Create formative assessments, reflection prompts, and guided practice. |
| Brisk Teaching | Feedback and grading support integrated with Google Classroom. | Provide targeted comments on student submissions at scale. |
| TeacherMatic | AI assistant for everyday teacher tasks. | Draft newsletters, IEP comments, and resource lists. |
| TeachAI Toolkit (ISTE/Code.org) | Policy and framework guidance for responsible AI use in schools. | Support department and district AI planning and PD. |
Math and STEM Tools for Teachers
| Tool | Description | Classroom Use |
|---|---|---|
| Wolfram Alpha | Symbolic math engine with step-by-step computation and knowledge queries. | Verify answers and demonstrate algebraic reasoning. |
| Desmos | Interactive graphing and modeling platform. | Explore functions, transformations, and regressions dynamically. |
| GeoGebra | Dynamic geometry, algebra, and calculus environment (2D/3D). | Visualize relationships, surfaces, and constructions. |
| ChatGPT + Wolfram | LLM reasoning augmented with symbolic computation. | Contrast probabilistic language reasoning with exact computation. |
Homework Helpers and Student Awareness
These apps are popular with students for short-cutting homework. Use them as case studies for explanation quality, method comparison, and academic integrity.
| Tool | What It Does | How Teachers Might Respond |
|---|---|---|
| Photomath | Solves scanned problems with step-by-step solutions. | Require reasoning annotations and discuss when steps are or are not valid. |
| Mathway | Typed solver covering algebra through calculus. | Compare methods to class methods and reflect on differences. |
| Symbolab | Emphasizes symbolic steps, including advanced calculus. | Evaluate step quality and connect to formal proofs where relevant. |
| Chegg / CourseHero | Solution repositories and Q&A databases. | Reinforce originality and assess process, not just final answers. |
| Socratic (Google) | Homework helper app explaining core concepts. | Allow for conceptual review and restrict for graded work. |
| CameraMath, SnapSolve, GotIt | Photo-based solvers with generated explanations. | Identify inaccuracies and use as critical-reading exercises. |
Student-Safe AI Learning Resources
| Resource | Focus | Use in School |
|---|---|---|
| Code.org - AI Curriculum | How AI works content for grades 6-12. | STEM days, CS integration, or flipped learning modules. |
| AI Education Project (aiEDU) | AI ethics, bias, and data literacy lessons. | Cross-curricular integration in Math, ELA, and Social Studies. |
| AI4ALL / IBM SkillsBuild | Self-paced introductions and projects. | Enrichment, independent study, or clubs. |
| AI4K12 | National AI literacy framework for K-12. | Align curriculum goals and outcomes. |
| Common Sense Education - AI Lessons | Digital citizenship and responsible AI use. | Advisory, health, or media literacy units. |
Helpful Additions
| Tool | Function | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Perplexity.ai | AI research assistant that cites sources. | Models evidence-based inquiry and verification. |
| Common Sense AI Tools for Education | Curated classroom-safe tool lists. | Supports vetting for privacy and safety policies. |
| TeachAI Policy Toolkit | Responsible AI adoption guidance. | Starts discussions on equity, bias, and privacy. |
Key Takeaways
- Transparency over prohibition: Students already use AI, so teach ethical and reflective use.
- AI augments, not replaces: Use AI to deepen learning and feedback, not to bypass thinking.
- Balance creativity with caution: Encourage experimentation while modeling source citation and verification.
Credit
This page was compiled with the assistance of ChatGPT (OpenAI, 2025) to support responsible, effective use of AI in secondary education.