Multiple Intelligence Activities

Tap to Read ➤ Loveleena Rajeev

Let's take a look at some activities for multiple intelligence that will help to establish the type or types of intelligence an individual possesses, and nurture and enhance the dormant ones.

Dr. Howard Gardner, a professor of education at Harvard University, in his 1983 book Frames of Mind , proposed the theory of multiple intelligence, wherein he emphasized the need to broaden the concept of intelligence to include all potential capacities an individual may have.

He believes that intelligence is more than just the capacity to logically solve problems, and should not be confined to an IQ test alone.

An Overview of the Eight Multiple

1. Linguistic Intelligence - The capacity to efficiently use language and vocabulary―oral or written. 2. Logical-Mathematical Intelligence - The ability to logically deduce a numerical or a scientific problem.

3. Musical Intelligence - A strong auditory intelligence characterized by a sense of rhythm, music, and hearing. 4. Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence - This area deals with physical activity. Individuals with this type of intelligence learn faster and better using a hands-on approach.

5. Spatial Intelligence - This intelligence is characterized by a strong visual memory and the ability to mentally manipulate objects. It is all about images and space, and the capacity to visualize it. 6. Interpersonal Intelligence - The capacity to understand and perceive other people's moods, feelings, motivations. and intentions.

7. Intrapersonal Intelligence - This intelligence is characterized by the ability to understand and introspect our own needs, desires, and limitations. 8. Naturalistic Intelligence - An affinity towards the natural habitat and those who live in it; that is plants and animals, forms this intelligence.

Various Activities to Conduct

Each individual possesses more than one form of intelligence, and this is reflected in his/her ability to multitask. However, the following activities can help decide the person's preference towards a particular activity.

Linguistic Intelligence

Write a story and read it aloud Impromptu speaking Debate Read books or articles Write a poem, an essay, play, or newspaper article

Conduct an interview (role-play) or a talk show Write and present theories Play games that use tongue twisters Write journals or diaries Document and present a thesis

Logical Intelligence

Solve problems Create number patterns Conduct an experiment on a particular theory Solve puzzles Develop a computer program to solve mathematical queries

Describe the patterns or symmetry of chemicals Play games using money Make spreadsheets for calculations Conduct experiments using deductive and inductive reasoning Collect data and organize them Learn about scientific models and explain them Solve geometric problems Make predictions using theories Make a scientific model using measurements

Musical Intelligence

Sing songs Play or compose music Write lyrics or short jingles Create rhythmic patterns Play different musical instruments in a group

Participate in a choir or sing on your own and in a group Hum and rap Demonstrate the working of a musical instrument Explain differences and similarities in tones and sounds

Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence

Role-play an event Make a castle of cards or a sand castle Build a model of some structure

Repair a mechanical equipment Plan a field trip Demonstrate a hands-on activity

Dance Learn martial arts Play games Do exercises Try trekking or mountain climbing

Spatial Intelligence

Demonstrate a piece of art Make visual metaphors or analogies Map historical events and stories using graphs Make 3D projects

Sketch, paint, or draw Visualize patterns and create them Play visual puzzles Play photo memory games

Interpersonal Intelligence

Participate in group projects Combined learning Party in a group Conduct a meeting to solve problems Resolve conflict

Discuss and debate an issue Brainstorm on any subject Interpret others' feelings Join a sports activity group Form activity or social clubs Join a book club and share your views

Intrapersonal Intelligence

Pursue a new goal Share meaningful personal experience Write about your perceptions

Focus on weakness and strengthen it Reflect on your actions Indulge in some individual reading

Naturalistic Intelligence

Take care of animals and plants Participate in nature clubs Get involved in an environment protection program Build a birdhouse Keep an observation journal of the plants or animals

Study cloud formation Collect colorful rocks Research one particular plant or animal and demonstrate its importance in the nature's cycle Make a note of the difference in temperature and pollution Map and demonstrate the ozone layer Explain importance of recycling

The activities provide children and adults an opportunity to enhance their level of intelligence and fully realize their potential.