Question the Author

This worksheet supports students in Grades 6, 7, and 8 as they read an informational passage about self-driving cars and examine how autonomous vehicle AI systems function. Students first demonstrate comprehension through multiple-choice questions, then deepen their understanding by completing a “Question the Author” activity that asks them to write clarifying, challenging, or extending questions about the text, technology, and safety considerations.

Learning Goals

• Questioning & Inquiry (Grades 6-8) – Develop thoughtful questions that clarify, challenge, or extend ideas in an informational text.
• Informational Text Comprehension – Understand explanations of how self-driving car AI systems operate.
• Critical Evaluation – Analyze how clearly and accurately technology processes are explained.
• Technology Literacy – Build realistic understanding of autonomous systems and their limitations.

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Created Resource – Designed by educators to align with ELA reading and inquiry standards.
• Two-Part Structure – Combines comprehension checks with higher-level questioning practice.
• Promotes Active Reading – Encourages students to engage with the author’s ideas rather than passively accept them.
• Discussion-Ready – Student questions can be used for class discussion or small-group analysis.
• Flexible Use – Suitable for independent work, guided reading, assessment, or homeschool instruction.

This printable worksheet helps students move beyond basic comprehension to deeper engagement with informational text about technology. By questioning how self-driving cars work and how ideas are presented, learners strengthen inquiry skills, critical thinking, and understanding of autonomous AI systems. Ideal for classroom and homeschool use, this activity builds confident readers who can ask meaningful questions about technology, safety, and real-world applications.

This worksheet is part of our Parts of an AI System collection.