“The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Written Discourse Production: A Case Study in Upper Secondary School Essay Writing (11th Grade)”

This paper investigates the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and in particular the ChatGPT tool, in the process of written discourse production within the context of teaching essay writing in the 11th grade of upper secondary education. The aim of this presentation is to examine to what extent the use of AI can function as a supportive pedagogical tool, enhancing students’ creativity, autonomy, and linguistic competence. Through a pilot study conducted in a tutorial environment with 12 students, examples of the practical use of ChatGPT are presented across all stages of writing: from brainstorming and the creation of outlines to the final production of paragraphs. Finally, the benefits and challenges are explored, along with the pedagogical and ethical dimensions of this new reality.