Essay Prompt:
As AI writing tools like ChatGPT become more accessible and sophisticated, college instructors are increasingly reconsidering traditional writing assignments. Some educators argue that the age of the manuscript is ending and that new expectations will emerge—assignments will shift toward multimodal expressions (videos, podcasts, infographics, digital portfolios) and gamified engagement (badges, leaderboards, creative constraints) as a way to encourage authentic thinking and resist AI-generated content. Others worry that this shift waters down academic rigor or leaves behind students less fluent in media production.
In a well-researched essay of 1,700–2,000 words, analyze the claim that AI writing platforms will radically alter professors’ expectations of college-level assignments. Do you believe the traditional essay will evolve into a new hybrid form—more multimedia, more interactive, more gamified—or is this a premature diagnosis? What are the benefits and drawbacks of this transformation for students, instructors, and institutions?
Use at least four credible sources—such as academic articles, think pieces, case studies, or expert interviews—to support your position. Your essay should include:
- A clear, arguable thesis
- Analysis of trends in AI, education technology, and composition pedagogy
- Consideration of counterarguments and rebuttals
- Thoughtful reflection on what “rigor” and “authenticity” should mean in the AI era
Are we witnessing the rebirth of the college essay—or its elegant funeral?
Cinemorphosis 
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