Upgrade or Unplug?

This worksheet helps students in Grades 6, 7, and 8 build critical thinking, argumentative writing, and digital citizenship skills by evaluating real-life AI inventions. Learners examine different AI systems and decide whether each should be upgraded, kept as-is, or unplugged entirely, based on safety, fairness, usefulness, and the need for human oversight.

Learning Goals

• Technology in Society (Grades 6-8) – Evaluating how AI systems affect people, communities, and decision-making
• Argumentative Writing – Supporting claims with clear justification and evidence
• Digital Citizenship – Understanding AI oversight, safety concerns, and ethical responsibility
• Critical Thinking – Weighing benefits against risks to make reasoned judgments

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Created Resource – Designed to align with social studies, ELA, and technology standards
• Decision-Based Scenarios – Encourages thoughtful evaluation rather than simple right-or-wrong answers
• Real-World Relevance – Connects classroom learning to current and emerging technologies
• Discussion & Writing Ready – Supports debate, reflection, and written explanation
• Low-Prep Format – Easy to print and use in classrooms or homeschool settings

This printable worksheet helps students develop strong judgment about when AI tools should be improved, limited, or removed altogether. By considering safety, fairness, and human responsibility, learners strengthen reasoning, ethical awareness, and persuasive writing skills. It is a practical resource for classroom and homeschool instruction focused on responsible technology use and thoughtful evaluation of AI systems in society.

This worksheet is part of our Good vs. Bad AI Worksheets collection.