The Weight of a Question

Me with (Smart) Objects

9-11 years

45 min

Learning goal :

Learning to use AI ethically and responsibly

Pedagogical Intention :

Being aware of the environmental impact of AI solutions and taking steps to reduce it

Target skills :

Becoming aware of the environmental footprint of digital technology and AI.

Materials :

Diagram of a Data Center, glasses of water or tokens.

Detailed Procedure :

1. Compare a simple dictionary search vs. an AI query. 2. Explain that a question to the AI consumes the equivalent of a glass of water (for cooling) and electricity. 3. Challenge: 'The Efficient Prompt.' Learn to ask the AI a question only when necessary and precisely, to avoid pointless back-and-forth. 4. Students compare two prompts (vague vs. precise) and measure the number of exchanges needed in each case. 5. Summary: collectively build a poster 'My 3 eco-digital habits' (I think before asking / I phrase clearly / I use AI only when useful).

Progress Indicators

The student can explain why you should not "chat for no reason" with an energy-hungry AI.

Research Foundations

Digital eco-responsibility