In the digital age, the concepts of AI writing, authenticity, and writing style have become intertwined in the realm of education. An innovative classroom exercise that involves students in discerning between AI-generated and human-written texts is proving to be a valuable teaching tool.

This practice not only exposes students to the capabilities and limitations of AI in writing but also encourages them to develop their own unique voices and styles in writing.
The Rise of AI in Writing
AI has made significant inroads into the writing landscape. Tools like GPT-3 and others can generate text that appears to be human-written. According to Wikipedia’s page on Artificial Intelligence in Literature, these advancements have raised questions about the future of writing. However, while AI can produce grammatically correct and seemingly coherent text, it lacks the depth of human experience and creativity. For example, AI may struggle to convey complex emotions or unique perspectives that are inherent in human writing.
Understanding Authenticity in Writing
Authentic writing is a crucial aspect that students need to grasp. It is not just about correct grammar and spelling but also about expressing genuine thoughts, feelings, and experiences. When students engage in the activity of differentiating between AI and human writing, they start to recognize the hallmarks of authenticity.

These may include the use of idiosyncratic language, the presence of personal anecdotes, and the ability to connect with the reader on an emotional level. As a result, students learn to value the authenticity that human writing brings to the table.
Nurturing Personal Writing Styles
This classroom exercise also plays a vital role in helping students develop their writing styles. By analyzing the differences between AI-generated and human-written pieces, students can identify what makes a writer unique. They can then incorporate elements such as word choice, sentence structure, and narrative flow to create their own distinct styles. For instance, they might notice how a human writer uses vivid imagery to make a description more engaging and apply this technique in their own writing. As stated on Britannica’s page on Literary Style, a good writing style is what sets apart great writers from the rest.
Readability guidance: This article uses short paragraphs and lists to present key points. The proportion of passive voice and long sentences is controlled, and transition words are used throughout to enhance the flow of the text. Each section focuses on different aspects related to AI writing, authenticity, and writing style to provide a comprehensive understanding.
