- Feb 26
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 26
Recently, we worked with a student named Claire, an eighth grader preparing for a mock trial in her history class. The assignment? Act as the prosecution and argue that Francisco Pizarro, the Spanish conquistador, was guilty of genocide.
This was a complex, high-stakes assignment requiring Claire to:
1️⃣ Research the fall of the Inca Empire
2️⃣ Write an opening statement and build a case
3️⃣ Prepare for cross-examination by anticipating tough defense arguments
Claire had already done her research and drafted her statement. But when it came to the final step—preparing for the back-and-forth debate—she felt stuck.
She wasn’t sure how to predict the defense’s counterarguments or how to deliver strong rebuttals on the spot. That’s when we showed her a powerful AI study technique: using ChatGPT as a debate coach.
Using AI as a Mock Trial Prep Coach
Instead of leaving Claire to figure things out alone, we taught her how to turn ChatGPT into a realistic debate opponent.
We started with this simple prompt:
💬 “You are the defense attorney in a mock trial about Francisco Pizarro. Ask me 10 tough questions that I should be prepared to answer.”
Within seconds, AI generated sharp, thought-provoking counterarguments—the kind her classmates might challenge her with.
Here are a few examples:
❓ The term genocide wasn’t even defined until the 20th century. How can you apply a modern law to a historical figure?
❓ Genocide requires intent. Isn’t it true that Pizarro’s main goal was wealth and power, not destruction?
❓ How do you prove Pizarro’s direct responsibility for what happened, rather than blaming the broader Spanish conquest?
Suddenly, Claire had a roadmap for her rebuttals—and a way to practice answering difficult questions before stepping in front of her class.
The Big “Aha” Moment
Claire’s biggest fear was freezing up during the trial. After using AI to simulate real debate questions, she told me:
🔹 “Now I know what to expect. I don’t have to guess what the defense might say—I can actually prepare!”
She practiced answering each AI-generated question out loud, refining her arguments and spotting weak points.
By the time the actual trial took place, Claire was calm, confident, and prepared. She knew how to counter misleading arguments, structure persuasive responses, and engage in critical debate.
Why This Matters for Students
This wasn’t just about one history assignment—it was about building critical thinking, public speaking, and structured argumentation skills that will serve students for life.
Why AI-powered debate prep works:
✅ Develops critical thinking – Students learn to analyze both sides of an issue, not just memorize facts.
✅ Boosts confidence – Practicing tough questions in advance makes students feel prepared, not panicked.
✅ Strengthens real-world skills – Argumentation, reasoning, and persuasion are invaluable beyond the classroom.
When used correctly, AI isn’t a shortcut—it’s a tool that helps students think more deeply and engage with learning in a powerful way.
Want Your Child to Learn These Skills?
If this approach resonates with you, I invite you to check out my live group training on AI-powered study techniques.
In this session, students will learn how to use AI as a tutor, coach, and study partner—without compromising academic integrity.
The future of learning is here. Let’s make sure your child is ready for it.