TRY THIS TOMORROW: TYPOS ARE HEROES
Article: I’m a Typo, and in This Age of AI, I’m the Real Hero by Julie Vick
*preview for language
Using AI in writing is a topic that is on the rise in education communities. It seems like everyone is using AI and students notice and have opinions. This monologue by Julie Vick, written from the point of view of a typo, is a great text to open two classroom conversations: AI and writing voice, and how humor is a craft to be studied.
Using AI to Write:
The argument of this monologue is that AI is taking the life (human) out of writing. The point of Vick’s piece is that AI can produce technically flawless writing, but flawless doesn’t always mean human. Through humor, the typo reminds us that imperfections often signal personality, risk-taking, and authentic voice.
Potential Discussion Questions:
- What does AI do well and what has it yet to perfect?
- What do you think when you see typos?
- Where do you notice people using AI for writing? What gives it away?
- Would you rather read flawless writing or writing with a human voice?
Craft Study:
- What makes this piece funny? Students may notice the exaggeration, comparisons, playful digs at AI, self-awareness etc.
- What do you notice about the personification of the typo? What attitude or personality traits are shown? How?
- How does the typo having a personality play into the message?
- Which line shows the humor or personality the most? Why choose that line?