Get to know the intelligences
Multiple intelligences should be used within the classroom to
promote learner achievement. ‘In
Learning Classroom’ (Rossbach, 2002) it is argued that
multiple intelligences should be the starting point for learning in which
children can use their skills to engage themselves in the content. Obviously
students cannot be limited to their strengths, but it is how we provide opportunities
for students to use their strengths to benefit all areas of learning. Simply
put, multiple intelligences are not the end point of learning. However, a child’s
intelligence should be considered when asking students to show their learning
(edutopia, 1997). To understand how we can provide our children with such
opportunities, one must understand what each intelligence is:
Intelligence definitions from http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newISS_85.htm
- Linguistic intelligence – This is the ability to use spoken and written language effectively to express yourself. Lawyers, writers, and speakers tend to have high linguistic intelligence.
- Logical-mathematical intelligence – This is the ability to analyze problems logically, work effectively with mathematical operations, and investigate issues using the scientific method. Finding patterns and deductive reasoning are other capabilities associated with this intelligence. People working in the scientific and mathematical communities tend to be high in this type of intelligence.
- Musical intelligence – This is the ability to perform, compose, and appreciate musical patterns, including changes in pitch, tone, and rhythm. Successful musicians, composers, and people involved in music production have high levels of musical intelligence.
- Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence – This is the ability to use the body for expression. People high in this intelligence use their physical coordination to master problems. Professional dancers and athletes are good examples of this.
- Spatial intelligence – This is the ability to recognize, use, and interpret images and patterns and to reproduce objects in three dimensions. Successful architects, sculptors and designers are likely to have high spatial intelligence.
- Interpersonal intelligence – This is the ability to understand people's intentions, motivations, and desires. This intelligence allows individuals to work well with others. Professions like therapy, teaching, and sales attract individuals with high interpersonal intelligence.
- Intrapersonal intelligence – This is the ability to understand yourself, and to interpret and appreciate your own feelings and motivations. Therapists, actors, caregivers, and writers are all people who can bring high levels of personal awareness to their work.
- Naturalist intelligence – This is the ability to recognize and appreciate our relationship with the natural world. Astronomers, biologists, and zoologists are examples of professions with a high level of naturalist intelligence. (This is the eighth intelligence that Gardner added, after first publication of his model.)
Intelligence definitions from http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newISS_85.htm