the 7 multiple intelligences.. Multiple Intelligences - Using the Brain to Teach


According to Harvard University professor Dr. Howard Gardner, there are eight multiple intelligences that allow us to process information and problem-solve. Just as there are different personalities, there are different types of minds. Each person has a unique combination of each intelligence. Because of this, it is vital that educators teach their discipline in as many methods and styles as possible.
Gardner's theory of seven multiple intelligences is well documented in his 1983 book Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple Intelligences. A decade later, an eighth intelligence was researched and added to the collection.

1. Verbal-Linguistic Intelligence refers to the skill of interpreting and producing language as well as the capacity to grasp concepts associated with language acquisition. Reading aloud, writing plays, debating, and working with phonetic patterns are activities that can strengthen verbal-linguistic intelligence.

2. Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence refers to the skill of using the body to create things, explain ideas, and problem-solve. Choreographing a dance or using hands-on materials encourages the intelligence of bodily-kinesthetics.

3. Mathematical-Logical Intelligence involves the ability to understand systems, reason deductively or inductively, and to manipulate figures and equations. Solving mysteries, formulating word problems, and conducting lab experiments involves the use of this intelligence.

4. Spatial Intelligence involves the ability to create visual or spatial relationships in relation to the physical world. Reading charts, sculpting, or creating visual displays enhance this intelligence. Pilots, artists, and architects display a strength in spatial intelligence.

5. Interpersonal Intelligence refers to the skill of working well with others. Effectively understanding people's goals, emotions, and intentions can be accomplished in small group work. Allowing students to act as the teacher can also develop this intelligence.

6. Intrapersonal Intelligence refers to one's capacity to understand one's self: motivations, feelings, and strengths. Providing opportunities for students to silently read, write in a journal, or pursue personal goals cultivates this intelligence.

7. Musical Intelligence involves the awareness and understanding of rhythm, pitch, and pattern. Bridging a connection between the sound of music and emotional response is a strength of this intelligence. Studying tongue twisters, song lyrics, and musical notes can develop this intelligence.

8. Naturalist Intelligence refers to the skill of distinguishing and analyzing relationships between plants and animals. Caring for pets and gardens, or using telescopes and binoculars nurtures the naturalist intelligence. This intelligence allows an individual to understand a balance of nature in the fields of agriculture, biology, and paleontology.


Imagination and hard work are very necessary to present materials within different intelligences. When preparing lessons, keep in mind the dynamics of students in your classroom. Every member of your class can make a connection, understand the importance of learning, and experience success.

As a result of using different intelligences, students develop independence, improve their behavior, model leadership skills, retain information, and refine problem-solving skills. The role of an educator also changes as students grow and develop. Teachers become more facilitative and resourceful rather than directive. Various approaches to teaching develop new perspectives and open minds.

Experimenting and learning about multiple intelligences can be a resourceful tool in problem-solving techniques. When trying to analyze, build, and understand a concept or problem, different parts of our brains are used, mixing intelligences until a solution is reached. Real world situations require different strengths, perspectives, and methods of thinking as well. Relying on all capacities of our mental being can ultimately create personal achievement and success, both in and outside of the classroom.