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Best AI Tools for Teachers in 2025: Planning, Grading & Feedback

byWiredufred Published:

Introduction

Teaching in 2025 is exciting and challenging. Students expect engaging content, quick feedback and personalised support. Teachers juggle lesson plans, grading papers, communications with families and administrative tasks. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers tools that automate repetitive work, free time for meaningful interactions and help all learners succeed. This article explores the best AI tools for teachers in 2025. You’ll learn how AI can simplify lesson planning, assessment and feedback, which tools lead the field, and practical tips for safe, responsible use.

Confident teacher in a modern classroom holding a tablet and stylus beside an open laptop displaying an AI interface, with 'AI' sketched on the chalkboard and two students working in the background.

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Why AI tools matter for educators

AI is no longer a futuristic concept – it’s a set of practical technologies integrated into classroom products. Research shows that AI‑powered tools can reduce workload and improve student outcomes. For example, the University of San Diego notes that AI‑assisted grading platforms like Gradescope reduce grading time, provide consistent feedback and integrate with learning‑management systems (LMS)pce.sandiego.edu. In communications, 89 % of teachers using ClassDojo report stronger school‑home connections, leading to better attendance and more supported teachersstatic.classdojo.com. Accessibility tools such as Microsoft’s Immersive Reader use research‑backed techniques like optimized line length to increase reading speed by 27 %learn.microsoft.com. These examples highlight the potential of AI to free teachers from routine tasks and improve learning.


AI tools for lesson planning and content generation

Planning high‑quality lessons takes time. AI‑driven planning tools offer templated structures, generate differentiated materials and reduce administrative overhead. Below are the top planning tools for 2025.


MagicSchool.ai – an all‑in‑one lesson generator

MagicSchool.ai is designed for busy teachers who need standards‑aligned lessons. The official site claims that MagicSchool generates lesson plans, assessments and parent communications in minutes and that many educators save 7–10 hours per weekmagicschool.ai. The platform also emphasises privacy: it has a 93 % privacy rating from Common Sense Media and an ESSA Level IV evidence badgemagicschool.ai. Teachers select a lesson type, enter standards or topics, and the AI produces outlines, objectives, activities and assessments. Real teachers can then review and edit the content to suit their class.

Pros

  • Offers templates for IEPs (Individualized Education Plans), newsletters and parent communications.

  • Built by educators; includes bias‑checking and privacy safeguardsmagicschool.ai.

  • Integrates with common LMS platforms and supports PDF/Word exports.

Cons

  • Requires an internet connection; offline planning isn’t supported.

  • AI‑generated materials must be reviewed for accuracy and cultural relevance.


Curipod – interactive slides and activities

Curipod helps teachers create interactive presentations. According to a review from the University of Cincinnati Libraries, Curipod’s AI generator produces interactive slide decks with polls, word clouds and drawing activitiesguides.libraries.uc.edu. Students can join via QR code, respond to questions and contribute drawings or text. The responses are automatically organised into visual summaries such as word cloudsguides.libraries.uc.edu.

Pros

  • Engages students through live polls, drawings and open‑ended responses.

  • Saves time by auto‑generating slides and activities.

Cons


Khanmigo – teaching assistant from Khan Academy

Khanmigo is an AI tutor and teacher assistant built by Khan Academy. The company states that Khanmigo simplifies teacher workflows by generating lesson plans, quiz questions and rubrics with minimal learning curve. A teacher quoted on the site said the rubric generator reduced a task from an hour to 15 minuteskhanmigo.ai. Khanmigo also guides students to solutions rather than supplying answers, encouraging reasoning. It is available through district partnerships to ensure data privacykhanmigo.ai.

Pros

  • Produces lesson materials, quizzes and rubrics quickly.

  • Provides step‑by‑step tutoring that prompts students to explain their reasoning.

  • Minimal learning curve; integrates with Khan Academy’s content library.

Cons

  • Access is limited to schools or districts that partner with Khan Academykhanmigo.ai.

  • Teachers must monitor AI‑generated content for accuracy.


Eduaide.ai – versatile resource creator

Eduaide.ai offers more than 110 educational resource generators, including graphic organisers, educational games, assessment templates and unit plans. Teachers choose a resource type, enter a topic or upload a document and the AI produces a tailored draft. The official site emphasises that Eduaide is built by teachers and includes an AI assistant (“Erasmus”) for differentiation. While the site’s dynamic design prevents us from quoting text directly, the platform is widely praised for its variety of templates and low pricing (free and pro tiers). Because Eduaide gives high control over inputs, teachers can refine outputs to suit learners’ needs.

Pros

  • Wide library of resources including games, graphic organisers and unit plans.

  • Allows custom prompts and document uploads for tailored materials.

  • Free tier available; affordable Pro subscription unlocks unlimited generations.

Cons

  • AI‑generated content may require editing to meet curriculum standards.

  • The interface can be overwhelming due to the number of options.


AI tools for grading, assessment and feedback

Assessment and feedback are core to teaching but can consume evenings and weekends. The tools below streamline grading and offer insights into student work.


Gradescope – AI‑assisted grading and rubrics

Gradescope (now part of Turnitin) is widely adopted in universities and K‑12 schools. A James Madison University case study notes that Gradescope allows instructors to grade digital or scanned handwritten work and replaced Scantron systems with a Bubble Sheet featurelib.jmu.edu. The platform eliminates paper, enables grading anywhere and forces instructors to develop rubrics, which improves fairnesslib.jmu.edu. Students receive instant feedback, can view rubrics and request regrades online. Submissions can be photos or electronic files, reducing cheating and giving flexibility. The learning curve is minimallib.jmu.edu.

Pros

  • Supports multiple formats (digital uploads, photos of paper assignments).

  • Encourages rubric‑based grading for consistency and fairness.

  • Provides immediate feedback and regrade requests through an online interface.

  • Minimises paper use and allows grading anytime, anywherelib.jmu.edu.

Cons

  • Works best with objective or structured responses; essay grading still requires manual review.

  • Requires scanning if students submit physical work.


Writable – writing feedback and rubric generation

Writable combines AI‑generated suggestions with teacher review. According to the University of San Diego article, Writable uses rubric‑based scoring and provides targeted feedback on student writingpce.sandiego.edu. Teachers can customise prompts, add rubrics and monitor progress. The tool encourages peer review and revision cycles, guiding students through drafting and editing.

Pros

  • Encourages iterative drafting and peer review.

  • Integrates with Google Classroom and other LMS.

Cons

  • AI suggestions may not capture nuance; teacher oversight is essential.

  • Subscription cost may be a barrier for smaller schools.


ScribeSense – scanning and grading paper assessments

ScribeSense is ideal when schools still use paper tests. It scans handwritten or printed assessments and grades them, returning results digitallypce.sandiego.edu. Teachers can send exams through a scanner or smartphone camera; the AI analyses answers and produces scores. This can be helpful in contexts where digital access is limited.

Pros

  • Supports multiple question types (multiple choice, short answer, rubrics).

Cons

  • Requires scanning hardware.

  • Limited to certain question types; open‑ended analysis still needs human review.


Turnitin Draft Coach – real‑time writing guidance

Turnitin Draft Coach is a writing assistant built into Google Docs and Microsoft Word. It provides grammar, citation and similarity feedback and warns students about AI‑generated contentpce.sandiego.edu. Students can run similarity checks before submission, encouraging academic integrity and proper citation.

Pros

  • Offers real‑time grammar and citation suggestions.

  • Integrates with widely used word processors.

Cons

  • Requires students to use Google Docs or Word; not available offline.

  • Does not replace teacher feedback; final evaluation is still necessary.


AI tutoring and student support tools

Beyond planning and grading, AI can support students directly through tutoring, language practice and problem‑solving guidance.


SchoolAI – thought partners for student reflection

SchoolAI provides students with “Thought Partners,” AI bots that encourage reflection, idea generation and revision. The University of San Diego report notes that SchoolAI helps students reflect on their learning and revise work through conversational promptspce.sandiego.edu. Teachers can view transcripts and guide discussions. The tool is designed to support classroom conversations, not replace them.

Pros

  • Provides revision suggestions and prompts for deeper understanding.

  • Teachers maintain oversight of conversations.

Cons

  • Limited to text‑based chats; may not suit all learners.

  • Students must have devices and internet access.


ELSA Speak – pronunciation coach for language learners

ELSA Speak uses voice recognition to help learners improve pronunciation. According to the same source, ELSA Speak analyzes spoken language and provides feedback on pronunciation, helping students practise Englishpce.sandiego.edu. It includes exercises tailored to accent reduction and fluency.

Pros

  • Provides immediate pronunciation feedback.

  • Tracks progress over time and adapts difficulty.

Cons

  • Focuses mainly on pronunciation; not a full language course.

  • Requires a smartphone or tablet with a microphone.


Querium – step‑by‑step problem solving

Querium offers AI‑powered tutoring in math and science. It guides students through problem‑solving steps, providing hints and personalised feedbackpce.sandiego.edu. Teachers can see analytics on common errors and allocate intervention accordingly.

Pros

  • Provides instant feedback and tracks mastery.

Cons

  • Limited to math/science topics; not a general tutor.

  • May not align perfectly with every curriculum, so check standards.


AI tools for classroom management and communication

Effective classroom management includes behavior tracking, attendance, messaging and data dashboards. These tools help teachers stay organised and connected.


ClassDojo – community building and behavior feedback

ClassDojo remains one of the most popular classroom management apps. A 2025 brochure for district leaders reports that 89 % of teachers say ClassDojo builds stronger school‑home connections, improving attendance and teacher supportstatic.classdojo.com. Eight in ten teachers say the platform improves their day with tools like attendance, portfolios and AI features. Three in four principals find it easier to build positive behavior thanks to ClassDojo’s flexible points system aligned with MTSS or PBIS. Communication is effective: 80 % of families read ClassDojo messages the same daystatic.classdojo.com. The platform includes two‑way messaging in 130 + languages, attendance tracking, student portfolios, noise meters and group makersstatic.classdojo.com.

Pros

  • Provides positive behavior reinforcement through a points system.

  • Includes tools like noise meters, group randomisers and portfolios.

Cons

  • Data privacy depends on district settings; families may have concerns.

  • The social‑media‑like interface may encourage over‑monitoring if not used carefully.


Remind – secure messaging and language translation

Remind is a secure messaging platform that reaches students and families on any device. The Google Play listing explains that Remind allows real‑time communication, keeps personal contact information private and translates messages into more than 90 languages. Teachers can share files and photos with classes or individual students, and families can respond without seeing the teacher’s phone numberplay.google.com. Remind is widely used for announcements, assignments and attendance alerts.

Pros

  • Real‑time messages accessible via SMS or app.

  • Protects personal contact information.

Cons

  • Some users report reliability issues with notifications (e.g., delayed or missed messages).

  • Free accounts may receive limited customer support.


Otus – data and insights platform

Otus combines assessment, grading, progress monitoring and data analytics. In October 2025 the company announced Otus Insights, an AI‑powered assistant that synthesises performance data, uncovers trends and crafts family communicationsotus.com. The feature eliminates administrative tasks and provides recommendations such as effective instructional strategies or groupingsotus.com. Co‑founder Chris Hull emphasised that Otus’ AI is designed to support, not replace, teachers, enabling them to spend more time inspiring studentsotus.com.

Pros

  • Converts disparate data into actionable insights and communication drafts.

  • Suggests instructional strategies based on assessment resultsotus.com.

  • Embedded in a secure platform using existing student dataotus.com.

Cons

  • Requires training to interpret analytics effectively.

  • Best used at the school or district level; may be overkill for individual teachers.


Google Classroom – assignment management and feedback

Google Classroom remains a staple for managing assignments and announcements. It centralises materials, integrates with Google Docs, and allows teachers to assign work, grade and return feedback. Although not strictly an AI tool, it supports add‑ons (including AI grading assistants) and streamlines workflows when combined with tools like MagicSchool or Turnitin. For more insight, read our article on effective Google Classroom practices.


Accessibility and inclusion tools

Equitable classrooms require tools that meet diverse learners’ needs. AI supports accessibility through text‑to‑speech, translation and writing aids.


Microsoft Immersive Reader – research‑backed reading support

Microsoft’s Immersive Reader provides a set of features designed to improve reading comprehension. Research compiled by Microsoft shows that optimising font spacing can make readers with dyslexia read 10 % faster with 50 % fewer errorslearn.microsoft.com, and shorter line lengths can increase reading speed by 27 %learn.microsoft.com. The tool offers adjustable text size, font, colours, and a picture glossary, and reads text aloud with highlighting. These supports help students with dyslexia, language learners and anyone who benefits from audio support. It is built into Microsoft Word, OneNote, Edge and other apps, making it widely accessible.

Pros

  • Customisable fonts, spacing, background colour and syllable splitting.

Cons

  • Requires Microsoft accounts; integration may vary across platforms.

  • Some advanced features need stable internet access.


Speechify – text‑to‑speech audio reader

Speechify is a text‑to‑speech app that converts written documents into audio with natural‑sounding voices. Although direct citations are limited, user reviews note that Speechify supports multiple voices and speeds and works across devices. Teachers use it to provide audio versions of readings for students with dyslexia or those who prefer listening. The free version offers limited features, while the premium version adds higher‑quality voices and audiobook conversions. When evaluating Speechify, consider privacy policies and whether its subscription model fits your budget.


TalkingPoints – two‑way translation for family engagement

TalkingPoints enables teachers to send text messages to families in their home language. According to the company, the platform offers two‑way messaging in more than 150 languages (information on the site is dynamic, but widely reported). It combines machine‑learning translation with human translators to ensure messages are accurate and culturally appropriate. Teachers write a message in English; families receive it in their language and can respond in their language. This fosters inclusive communication and helps engage multilingual families.


Read&Write by Texthelp – literacy support suite

Read&Write is a literacy support tool that offers text‑to‑speech, word prediction, picture dictionaries and other aids. The University of San Diego highlights that Read&Write helps students with learning differences by providing text‑to‑speech and word predictionpce.sandiego.edu. Teachers can also use its highlighting and summarising tools to scaffold reading comprehension and note‑taking. Read&Write works as a browser extension and integrates with Google Docs and Microsoft Word.

Pros

  • Multifunctional: text‑to‑speech, word prediction, dictionaries and highlightingpce.sandiego.edu.

  • Supports students with dyslexia and language learners.

Cons

  • Premium version is costly; free tier has limited features.

  • Students may rely on predictions rather than developing independent writing skills.


Step‑by‑step guide to selecting AI tools for your classroom

Choosing the right AI tools requires careful planning and alignment with your goals. Follow these steps to implement AI responsibly:

1. Identify your goals and pain points

  • Define your priority (e.g., planning time, grading efficiency, communication, inclusivity). For instance, if grading essays consumes weekends, a rubric‑driven platform like Gradescope or Writable may be a priority.

  • Assess resources – Check device availability, internet connectivity and budgets. Tools like ScribeSense require scanners, while others run on mobile devices.


2. Consult school policies and privacy guidelines

  • Review your school’s technology policy and data privacy requirements. Some districts restrict certain AI platforms or require district‑level agreements (as with Khanmigokhanmigo.ai).

  • Ensure the tool complies with applicable privacy laws (e.g., FERPA). Look for evidence of privacy certifications, as MagicSchool’s 93 % privacy rating and ESSA badge illustratemagicschool.ai.


3. Trial the tool and start small

  • Pilot with a single class. Start with non‑critical tasks like generating idea prompts or practice quizzes.

  • Monitor accuracy and student reactions. Adjust prompts or settings to suit your learners.

  • Use free trials or free tiers where possible before committing to paid plans.


4. Integrate with existing workflows

  • Choose tools that integrate with your LMS. Gradescope syncs with many LMS, and Writable connects with Google Classroom and Canvas.

  • Avoid redundancy; for example, if your school already uses Google Classroom for assignments, integrate AI features rather than adopting another platform.


5. Provide guidance and transparency for students

  • Explain how AI tools work and how they support learning. For writing tools, emphasise that AI provides suggestions but doesn’t replace their own ideas.

  • Set guidelines for AI use to prevent over‑reliance. Turnitin’s Draft Coach allows students to check their work and refine citationspce.sandiego.edu.


6. Review and adjust

  • Evaluate impact after a trial period: Did the tool save time? Did student performance improve? Are students engaged?

  • Collect feedback from students and families. Tools like ClassDojo provide analytics on family engagementstatic.classdojo.com.

  • Iterate or switch tools if necessary.


Responsible use and ethical considerations

AI can amplify biases or generate incorrect content if used blindly. To use AI ethically:

  • Always review AI‑generated materials. The University of San Diego emphasises that teachers should review AI content, avoid sharing sensitive data and teach students about AIpce.sandiego.edu.

  • Protect student data. Use platforms with strong security (ClassDojo advertises bank‑grade security and secure sign‑onstatic.classdojo.com). Avoid entering personally identifiable information into generative tools.

  • Teach digital literacy. Encourage students to evaluate AI suggestions and cross‑check information. Use AI as a support, not a replacement.

  • Address equity. Ensure all students have access to devices and internet. Provide alternatives for those who cannot use certain tools.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What AI tools are best for lesson planning?

Several AI platforms have transformed lesson planning. MagicSchool.ai creates comprehensive lesson plans and assessments within minutes, while Khanmigo offers an integrated rubric generator that significantly reduces grading time. Curipod allows teachers to design interactive lesson slides with polls and collaborative prompts (guides.libraries.uc.edu), and Eduaide.ai provides over 110 differentiated resource types to support diverse learners. Together, these tools make lesson creation faster, adaptive, and more engaging.

Which AI tools help with grading and feedback?

Gradescope and Writable are leading options. Gradescope supports both digital and scanned submissions, uses rubric-based scoring, and provides instant feedback with minimal setup (lib.jmu.edu). Writable offers AI-assisted writing feedback and facilitates peer review (pce.sandiego.edu). Additionally, Turnitin Draft Coach and ScribeSense support originality checking, writing improvement, and paper-based grading workflows for educators managing large classes.

How do I ensure AI tools respect student privacy?

Always review a tool’s privacy policy, compliance certifications, and data-sharing practices before adoption. MagicSchool maintains a 93% privacy rating, and ClassDojo implements bank-grade encryption and secure sign-on. Use only district-approved AI platforms like Khanmigo, and avoid inputting any personally identifiable information into generative prompts (pce.sandiego.edu). Ensuring compliance with FERPA or GDPR is critical for student data protection.

Can AI replace teachers?

No—AI cannot replace teachers. AI functions as a support tool that automates repetitive tasks, generates insights, and enhances instructional delivery, but it lacks the emotional intelligence, ethical reasoning, and human connection vital in education (otus.com). The purpose of AI is to empower teachers—saving time on grading or planning—so they can focus on mentorship, creativity, and equity in the classroom.

Are AI tools accessible for students with learning differences?

Yes. AI has greatly improved accessibility in education. Immersive Reader enhances reading comprehension using text spacing, line focus, and text-to-speech features validated by research. Read&Write provides word prediction and audio feedback. Speechify converts any text into natural-sounding audio, while TalkingPoints supports multilingual communication with real-time translation in 150+ languages. These tools create inclusive learning environments for diverse student needs.

How much do these AI tools cost?

Pricing structures vary widely. Many platforms offer free tiers—for example, MagicSchool includes a free plan, and ClassDojo is free for schools. Others like Curipod and Eduaide.ai provide paid upgrades for advanced analytics, collaboration, or additional templates. Educators should evaluate cost in relation to time savings, pedagogical value, and student impact before investing in premium plans.


Conclusion

AI tools have matured from experimental novelties to everyday allies in education. Whether you need help generating lesson plans, grading assignments, communicating with families or supporting students with diverse needs, 2025 offers a suite of AI tools designed for teachers. Platforms like MagicSchool.ai, Gradescope, Khanmigo, ClassDojo and Immersive Reader showcase how AI can save time, foster engagement and improve learning outcomes. Yet effective use requires careful selection, ongoing oversight and adherence to ethical guidelines.

As you integrate AI into your teaching practice, start small, collaborate with colleagues and remain attentive to students’ experiences. With thoughtful implementation, AI can empower teachers to focus on what matters most: inspiring young minds and nurturing a love of learning.


Further reading

By blending evidence‑based AI tools with sound pedagogy, educators in Ghana and across the world can lead classrooms that are more inclusive, efficient and engaging.

Author: Wiredu Fred is an educational technology writer and instructional designer with over 10 years of experience helping schools in Ghana and beyond implement digital tools. He researches evidence‑based classroom technologies and translates them into practical strategies for teachers.


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