Smart Machines Make Dumb Decisions

This worksheet is designed for Grades 7 and 8 to help students analyze real-world cases where artificial intelligence systems make flawed or biased decisions. Through scenario-based case studies, learners practice close reading, critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and technology literacy as they examine how bias can enter AI systems used in hiring, policing, and loan approval, and how those systems could be improved.

Instructional Objectives

• Analyzing Case Studies (Grades 7-8)
  Students read realistic scenarios and identify key decision points where AI systems fail or misjudge outcomes.
• Identifying Bias in Technology
  Learners examine how biased data, assumptions, or system design can lead to unfair results.
• Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving
  Activities require students to propose practical changes that could reduce bias and improve fairness.
• Understanding Real-World AI Systems
  Students connect classroom learning to modern technology issues that affect society.

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Created Resource
  Developed by educators to make complex technology and ethics topics accessible to students.
• Real-World Relevance
  Scenarios reflect current issues students may hear about in news or discussions.
• Encourages Responsible Design Thinking
  Promotes thinking like an ethical problem-solver rather than a passive technology user.
• Flexible Use Options
  Suitable for social studies, ELA, technology literacy lessons, or interdisciplinary units.

This printable worksheet helps students build strong skills in analysis, bias detection, ethical reasoning, and solution-focused thinking. By exploring how smart machines can still make poor decisions, learners gain a deeper understanding of why human oversight and responsible design matter. It’s a practical, no-prep resource that works well in both classroom and homeschool settings while supporting critical thinking and technology literacy development.

This worksheet is part of our Would You Trust AI collection.