| Multiple Intelligences
The theory of multiple intelligences was developed in 1983 by Dr. Howard Gardner, professor at Harvard University. Dr. Gardner proposes eight different intelligences to account for a broad range of human potential in children and adults. By recognizing that children possess individual gifts, we can provide a classroom environment that appeals to all children. Providing activities that encompass the eight intelligences during lessons, will increase the chance that all children will be active, attentive participants.
The eight intelligences are:
- Linguistic intelligence (“word smart”) – The capacity to use words effectively whether orally or in writing.
- Logical-mathematical intelligence (“number/reasoning smart”) – the capacity to use numbers effectively and to reason well.
- Spatial intelligence (“picture smart”) – The ability to perceive the visual-spatial world accurately and to create projects based on those perceptions.
- Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence (“body smart”) – Expertise in using one’s whole body to express ideas and feelings. Using one’s hands to produce or transform things.
- Musical intelligence (“music smart”) – The capacity to perceive, create, and express musical forms.
- Interpersonal intelligence (“people smart”) – The ability to observe and make distinctions in the moods, intentions, motivations and feelings of other people.
- Intrapersonal intelligence (“self smart”) – Self-knowledge and the ability to adapt to situations based on that knowledge.
- Naturalistic intelligence (“nature smart”) – The ability to easily recognize and classify plants, animals and other things in nature.
Adapted from http://www.as.wvu.edu/~scidis/learning.html and http://www.teachervision.fen.com
* For additional information on this topic refer to the module Jars of Treasure.
Multiple Intelligences Chart
This chart will help you choose activities that accommodate each of the eight intelligences. Incorporating activities from each list will ensure that all children will experience success.
Verbal-Linguistic |
Logical-Mathematical |
Spatial |
Bodily-Kinesthetic |
Choral speaking
Storytelling
Retelling
Speaking
Presenting
Reading aloud
Dramatizing
Book making |
Problem solving
Measuring
Sequencing
Predicting
Solving puzzles
Using manipulatives |
Graphing
Photographing
Making 3D projects
Painting
Illustrating
Using charts
Sketching |
Hands-on activities
Changing room set-up
Creative movement
Crafts
Dramatizing
Dancing |
Musical |
Interpersonal |
Intrapersonal |
Naturalistic |
Humming
Rapping
Background music
Playing instruments
Tapping poetic rhythms
Rhyming
Singing |
Classroom parties
Cooperative learning
Sharing
Group work
Peer teaching
Discussing
Brainstorming |
Personal response
Individual study
Individual projects
Independent reading |
Nature walk
Create a garden
Reading outside
Cloud watching |
Adapted from http://www.as.wvu.edu/~scidis/learning.html
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