How AI is Revolutionizing Reading and Writing Education

The Changing Landscape of Literacy Education

Initially, Lisa Parry, a 12th-grade teacher in South Dakota, noticed her students’ essays becoming increasingly predictable. Consequently, she developed an innovative solution: incorporating ChatGPT to generate fresh ideas. When her students subsequently began their book reports on “Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal,” Parry therefore encouraged them to consult the AI chatbot for unique perspectives on the fast-food industry.

As a result of this approach, students discovered unexpected insights. For instance, one student, inspired by ChatGPT, explored McDonald’s strategic use of sugar in their products – a perspective that particularly impressed Parry with its originality. Furthermore, this creative use of AI represents a growing trend in American education.

According to a comprehensive national survey by the RAND Corporation, moreover, approximately 40% of English teachers now utilize artificial intelligence in their classrooms. Meanwhile, recent federal data reveals that fourth and eighth graders’ literacy skills haven’t recovered to pre-pandemic levels.

AI Tools in Modern Classrooms

Adaptive Teaching Methods

Across the nation, English teachers are increasingly discovering diverse applications for AI tools, ranging from creating homework assignments to generating quizzes. Additionally, in San Diego, California, ninth-grade teacher Jen Roberts has successfully integrated AI platforms like MagicSchool and BriskBoost into her daily teaching routine at Point Loma High School.

“Although it would be better if I could read their writing and give them feedback,” Roberts acknowledges, “nevertheless, with 160 students – 36 at a time – it’s ultimately a better substitute for a private tutor.”

Technology Solutions

Currently, several AI-powered educational platforms are making significant impacts:

• First, Amira Learning for reading assistance
• Second, CourseMojo for comprehensive learning
• Third, Khan Academy’s KhanMigo for personalized tutoring
• Fourth, BriskBoost for instant writing feedback
• Finally, MagicSchool for interactive learning

The Limitations and Challenges

Similarly, Dr. Ying Xu, an assistant professor of artificial intelligence in learning and education at Harvard University, points out important constraints in current AI technology. “In particular, there’s this specific language used when talking to AI: It’s very matter of fact. Consequently, it’s almost like a quiz versus when you see a child interacting with a teacher,” she explains.

Academic Integrity Concerns

Meanwhile, in New Jersey, the challenges of AI integration became evident when high school English teacher Katie Thomas recently banned computer-written essays. After discovering widespread use of ChatGPT in assignments, Thomas found herself spending more time checking for plagiarism than planning lessons.

“In addition to consuming time,” Thomas says, “it’s significantly taking away from my planning and their education.” Moreover, she worries about future implications, fearing students might be disadvantaged “by employers, landlords or the government” if they don’t develop critical writing and reading skills independently.

Looking Forward: AI Integration in 2025

Despite these challenges, many school districts are actively preparing for increased AI integration. According to the Center on Reinventing Public Education’s database of early AI adopters:

District Initiatives

• Primarily, Newark Public Schools plans to implement Khan Academy’s Khanmigo
• Subsequently, San Ramon Valley Unified School District is developing comprehensive programs
• Furthermore, multiple districts are creating strategic implementation plans

Finding the Right Balance

In contrast to some approaches, Parry, who also serves as a school principal in South Dakota, maintains specific guidelines for AI use. Although she allows ChatGPT for prewriting, revision, and editing, she nonetheless insists that the actual writing process remains the student’s responsibility. Whenever she catches AI-generated work, consequently, students must demonstrate their writing abilities under supervision.

Expert Recommendations

Therefore, educational experts suggest:

• Above all, using AI as a supplementary tool rather than a replacement
• Additionally, maintaining crucial human interaction in learning
• Furthermore, implementing clear guidelines for appropriate AI usage
• Moreover, regular assessment of technology effectiveness
• Finally, focusing on developing critical thinking skills

The Future of Literacy Education

In conclusion, Peggy Carr, commissioner of the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics, notes that current literacy challenges extend beyond pandemic effects. “Indeed, this is not just a pandemic story,” she explains. “Furthermore, we know that teachers are not asking as much for essay responses. Similarly, students are also reading on devices. They’re not reading the kind of passages on devices that maybe you and I did years ago.”

As Parry aptly describes it, “It’s the new Wild West.” Ultimately, the education system continues to adapt, seeking the optimal balance between technological innovation and traditional teaching methods to ensure students develop strong foundational literacy skills while preparing for an AI-integrated future.

Last updated: February 23, 2025