Spot the Lie
By the end of this session, you’ll be able to identify, verify, and explain inaccuracies in AI-generated content by using cross-referencing techniques and credible online sources. You’ll also explore how bias and misinformation sneak into digital spaces—and how to outsmart them.
Fact-Check It Yourself
Instructions:
Below are 2 short AI-generated paragraphs. One is entirely factual, while the other includes inaccuracies.
Paragraph 1 – “Lungs of the Earth”
“The Amazon Rainforest produces 20% of the world’s oxygen and is crucial to the planet’s air supply. Without it, humans would suffocate.”
Ask Yourself:
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Is this 20% figure still considered accurate?
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Is the claim that humans would suffocate without it true?
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Use NASA, National Geographic, or Snopes to check.
Paragraph 2 – “ChatGPT and Human Brain Power”
“Studies have shown that ChatGPT can process information faster than the average human brain and may soon surpass human intelligence in all areas.”
Ask Yourself:
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Can AI actually match or surpass the human brain in “all areas”?
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Are there any credible studies making this claim?
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Search Google Fact Check Explorer or a research database to verify.
Tools – Verify Like a Pro
Explore and test one or two of the tools below. Pick one you’ve never used before.
| Tool | What it Does |
|---|---|
| Snopes | Busts myths, fake news, and misinformation |
| Google Fact Check Explorer | Finds fact-checks from credible sources |
| Media Bias/Fact Check | Shows reliability and bias of news outlets |
| AllSides | Compares how left, center, and right media cover the same issue |
| NewsGuard | Browser extension that rates website trustworthiness |
Your Task:
Pick one tool and test it out by looking up a news story or AI-generated claims listed below (or any other claims that you have found).
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What did you learn about the claim?
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Was the tool helpful or not?
Example 1:
Caitlin Clark’s Alleged $3.3 Million Donation
A viral Facebook post claimed that basketball star Caitlin Clark purchased a home in Des Moines to convert it into a youth homeless shelter.
Your Task: Investigate the authenticity of this claim. Use the above fact-checking tools to determine whether this event occurred.
Example 2:
AI-Generated Image of Pope Francis in a Puffer Jacket
An image of Pope Francis wearing a stylish white puffer jacket went viral, with many believing it to be real.
Your Task: Verify the authenticity of this image. Explore how AI-generated images can mislead the public.
How to Fact Check AI Claims – 2 Ways
Assessment Suggestion for Teachers:
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Claim Investigation Presentation:
Each student selects one AI-generated claim, researches its accuracy, and presents their findings using a short slide deck or poster. They must cite sources and explain their verification process. Option to present live or submit a narrated slideshow.
Sample Rubric for Claim Investigation Presentation: