70% of teens experiment with AI companions! This middle & high school lesson helps students think critically about AI companions and mental health while stressing the value of human connection.
 
First, students engage in a line debate on how AI is changing the mental-health landscape and where it might go next. In groups, they analyze real-world case studies and news excerpts to surface risks (privacy, accuracy, bias, over-reliance).
 
As a class, they then ask ChatGPT for “helpful vs. risky” ways to use AI around well-being, and practice identifying safer prompts.
 
The highlight of this 2 class lesson is The 36 Questions for Human Connection (adapted for grades 6–9): students pair up with someone they don’t know well, build trust through guided questions, and reflect on why some parts of care require people, not just tools.
 
What’s included:
17 editable Google Slides
4-page follow-along worksheet
NHES Aligned Teacher guide
Case studies
Prompt safety sorting activity
36 Questions for Human Connection Activity
Students will:
Explain potential benefits and risks of AI for mental-health support.
Evaluate source credibility and identify misinformation/overclaim in AI outputs.
Apply prompt-safety strategies (what to ask, what not to share, when to stop).
Practice communication, empathy, and help-seeking with peers and trusted adults.
Reflect on why human connection matters for well-being.