Source Detective

This worksheet supports students in Grades 6, 7, and 8 as they investigate how Microsoft Copilot analyzes writing to infer source type, author purpose, and style. Students input three different paragraphs from distinct source types, record Copilot’s guesses, and evaluate whether each interpretation is accurate, partially correct, or incorrect, strengthening analytical reading, reflective writing, and technology literacy skills.

Learning Goals

• Author’s Purpose & Style (Grades 6-8) – Analyze how tone, structure, and language signal different source types.
• Evaluating AI Reasoning – Assess how Copilot interprets text and where its conclusions succeed or fall short.
• Comparative Analysis – Compare AI interpretations across multiple examples to identify patterns.
• Reflective Writing – Explain observations and insights using clear, thoughtful written responses.

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Created Resource – Designed by educators to align with ELA analysis and technology literacy standards.
• Hands-On AI Evaluation – Students actively test AI interpretations rather than passively reading about them.
• Supports Media Literacy – Encourages skepticism and evidence-based judgment of automated tools.
• Cross-Text Comparison – Highlights how different writing styles influence AI analysis.
• Flexible Use – Suitable for independent investigation, small-group work, discussion, or homeschool instruction.

This printable worksheet helps students develop a deeper understanding of authorship, writing style, and how AI tools analyze text. By comparing Copilot’s interpretations with their own judgments, learners strengthen critical thinking, reflective writing, and awareness of AI’s strengths and limitations. Ideal for classroom and homeschool use, this activity promotes thoughtful evaluation of digital tools and reinforces the importance of human insight when interpreting written information.

This worksheet is part of our Microsoft Copilot Activities collection.