MULTIPLE INTELLIGENCES: STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM

The following list provides a survey of the techniques and materials that can be employed in teaching through the multiple intelligences.

Linguistic Intelligence 

• lectures, debates
• large- and small-group discussions
• books, worksheets, manuals
• brainstorming
• writing activities
• word games
• sharing time
• storytelling, speeches, reading to class
• talking books and cassettes
• extemporaneous speaking
• journal keeping
• choral reading
• individualized reading
• memorizing linguistic facts
• tape recording one’s words
• using word processors
• publishing (e.g., creating class newspapers)

Logical-Mathematical Intelligence 

• mathematical problems on the board
• Socratic questioning
• scientific demonstrations
• logical problem-solving exercises
• creating codes
• logic puzzles and games
• classifications and categorizations
• quantifications and calculations
• computer programming languages
• science thinking
• logical-sequential presentation of subject matter
• Piagetian cognitive stretching exercises
• Heuristic

Spatial Intelligence 

• charts, graphs, diagrams, and maps
• visualization
• photography
• videos, slides, and movies
• visual puzzles and mazes
• 3-D construction kits
• art appreciation
• imaginative storytelling
• picture metaphors
• creative daydreaming
• painting, collage, visual arts
• idea sketching
• visual thinking exercises
• graphic symbols
• using mind-maps and other visual organizers
• computer graphics software
• visual awareness activities
• optical illusions
• color cues
• telescopes, microscopes, and binoculars
• visual awareness activities
• draw-and-paint/computer- assisted-design software
• picture literacy experiences

Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence 

• creative movement, mime
• hands-on thinking
• field trips
• the classroom teacher
• competitive and cooperative games
• physical awareness and relaxation exercises
• all hands-on activities
• crafts
• body maps
• use of kinesthetic imagery
• cooking, gardening, and other “messy” activities
• manipulatives
• virtual reality software
• kinesthetic concepts
• physical education activities
• communicating with body language/ hand signals
• tactile materials and experiences
• body answers

Musical Intelligence 

• musical concepts
• singing, humming, whistling
• playing recorded music
• playing live music on piano, guitar, or other instruments
• group singing
• mood music
• music appreciation
• playing percussion instruments
• rhythms, songs, raps, chants
• using background music
• linking old tunes with concepts
• discographies
• creating new melodies for concepts
• listening to inner musical imagery
• music software
• supermemory music

Interpersonal Intelligence 

• cooperative groups
• interpersonal interaction
• conflict mediation
• peer teaching
• board games
• cross-age tutoring
• group brainstorming sessions
• peer sharing
• community involvement
• apprenticeships
• simulations
• academic clubs
• interactive software
• parties / social gatherings as context for learning
• people sculpting

Intrapersonal Intelligence 

• independent study
• feeling-toned moments
• self-paced instruction
• individualized projects and games
• private spaces for study
• one-minute reflection periods
• interest centers
• personal connections
• options for homework
• choice time
• self-teaching programmed instruction
• exposure to inspirational/ motivational curricula
• self-esteem activities
• journal keeping
• goal setting sessions