- Teaching Smarter with AI Newsletter
- Posts
- 🧠Getting Started with ChatGPT: A Step-by-Step Guide for Teachers.
🧠Getting Started with ChatGPT: A Step-by-Step Guide for Teachers.
If you’ve never used ChatGPT before, you’re not alone—and you’re not late. Many teachers are just starting to explore how AI can save time, boost creativity, and help students. This quick guide walks you through how to use ChatGPT, how it’s different from a Google search, and how to get great results with simple prompts.
Michael Rice
June 09, 2025
âś… Step 1: Open ChatGPT
In any browser, go to the website chat.openai.com and create a free account. You can use it from any device. Once you’re logged in, you’ll see a blank text box at the bottom of the screen. That’s where you type your prompt.
đź’¬ Step 2: What Is a Prompt?
A prompt is what you type to ask ChatGPT to do something. Think of it like giving directions to a helpful assistant. The more specific and clear you are, the better the answer.
🔍 Step 3: ChatGPT vs. Google—What’s the Difference?
Google Search | ChatGPT Prompt |
|---|---|
lesson plan on photosynthesis 7th grade | Write a 45-minute 7th grade science lesson plan on photosynthesis, including a hands-on activity and 3 discussion questions. |
Google gives you a list of links.
ChatGPT gives you a ready-to-use answer, like a teammate helping you out.
🧪 Step 4: Try These Prompts
Here are a few easy ways to get started:
“Give me 5 ideas for math bell ringers for 4th grade.”
“Explain how photosynthesis works in language a 10-year-old could understand.”
“Rewrite this parent email to sound more friendly and professional.”
Just type and hit enter—ChatGPT takes care of the rest.
🔄 Step 5: Keep the Conversation Going
Didn’t love the first answer? No problem. Just say things like:
“Make that shorter.”
“Add a joke.”
“Rewrite it to sound more formal.”
You don’t have to start over—just keep chatting.
đź’ˇ Tips for Success
Be specific. Try: “Create a 3-day lesson plan for The Great Gatsby with writing activities.”
Ask for formats. Try: “Make it a table” or “Turn this into a checklist.”
Use your voice. ChatGPT can match your tone and style—just ask!
🧑‍🏫 Bonus Example Prompt
Prompt
Write a short welcome letter to parents for the beginning of the school year. Make it friendly and upbeat, and include how to contact me.
Response
Dear Parents,
Welcome to a new school year! I’m thrilled to have your child in my class, and I’m looking forward to a year full of learning, growth, and fun.
Communication is key, so please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. You can contact me anytime at [your email] or through the school phone line at [your number].
Let’s make it a great year together!
Warmly,
[Your Name]
Reply