AI and Deepfakes: Can You Trust What You See?

A thought-provoking and highly relevant KS3 assembly exploring the rise of artificial intelligence, deepfakes, misinformation and digital trust in today’s world.

As AI technology develops at an extraordinary pace, young people are increasingly exposed to AI-generated images, videos, voices and online content. This engaging assembly helps students understand what deepfakes are, how they are created, why they matter, and how they can affect individuals, communities and society.

Using real-world examples, discussion activities and ethical debates, students are encouraged to think critically about the content they consume online and consider the importance of verification, responsibility and digital citizenship. The assembly explores both the opportunities and risks associated with AI, helping students develop the skills needed to navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape;

Included in this resource

• 14-slide professionally designed PowerPoint
• Interactive discussion prompts
• Real-world deepfake case studies
• Ethical debate activities
• Student reflection opportunities
• Critical thinking tasks
• Digital literacy focus
• Safeguarding links
• Whole-school assembly format

Key learning themes

Students will:

• Understand what artificial intelligence and deepfakes are
• Explore how deepfake technology works
• Examine real examples of AI-generated deception
• Consider the impact of misinformation and scams
• Discuss online safety and digital responsibility
• Explore the ethical challenges of emerging technologies
• Learn practical strategies to identify potential deepfakes
• Reflect on trust, truth and evidence in the digital age
• Develop critical thinking and media literacy skills
• Understand how AI can be used positively and negatively

Interactive activities included Real or Fake Challenge

Students analyse clues and identify whether images or videos may be genuine or AI-generated.

Ethical Hot Seat Debate

Students explore different perspectives and debate responsibility when AI-generated content causes harm.

Write the Law Activity

Students work together to design rules and regulations for deepfake technology, encouraging discussion around ethics, freedom of expression and accountability.

Reflection and Commitment Task

Students leave the assembly with practical actions they can take to become more responsible digital citizens.

Curriculum links

This resource supports:

• Computing
• PSHE
• Citizenship
• Digital Literacy
• Online Safety
• Media Literacy
• Critical Thinking
• Personal Development
• SMSC
• British Values

Perfect for

• KS3 assemblies
• Secondary schools
• Tutor time programmes
• PSHE lessons
• Digital safety weeks
• Online safety events
• AI awareness days
• Citizenship education
• Whole-school enrichment
• Personal development programmes

Suitable for KS3 students aged 11–14.