Multiple Intelligences

Theory of Multiple Intelligences

Dr. Howard Gardner’s “Theory of Multiple Intelligences” suggests that people possess multiple types of intelligence. He believes that there are more intelligences than just those measured by the standard I.Q. tests. He asserts there are at least eight or nine different intelligences.

These intelligences are:

Verbal-Linguistic

Logical-Mathematical

Spatial-Visual

Bodily-Kinesthetic

Musical-Rhythmic

Interpersonal

Intrapersonal

Naturalistic

Existential

About Multiple Intelligences

Verbal-Linguistic

Verbal-Linguistic intelligence is the ability to use language and words to express oneself. Individuals who are strong in Verbal-Linguistic intelligence are able to use words well, both when writing and speaking. These individuals have a sensitivity to the meaning and order of words, as well as possess the ability to learn other languages.

Characteristics of Verbal-Linguistic Intelligence

learning other languages
understanding order & meaning of words
good at explaining and teaching
good at remembering written and spoken information
good at debating or giving persuasive speeches
enjoys reading and writing

Logical–Mathematical

Logical-Mathematical intelligence is the ability to recognize patterns, reason deductively, and think logically. Individuals with high Logical-Mathematical intelligence are good at reasoning, recognizing patterns, calculating, understanding mathematical operations, and logically analyzing problems. These individuals tend to think logically, abstractly, and are able to perceive relationships and connections.

Characteristics of Logical-Mathematical Intelligence

able to recognize abstract patterns
possess strong problem solving skills
good at inductive and deductive reasoning
good at discerning relationships and connections
good at performing complex calculations

Visual-Spatial

Visual-Spatial intelligence is the ability to think in terms of physical space and in three dimensions. Individuals with high Visual-Spatial intelligence rely on their sense of sight and being able to visualize an object. They have the ability to create internal mental images/pictures in their mind and are able to recognize and use the patterns.

Characteristics of Visual-Spatial Intelligence

able to recognize patterns easily
good at forming mental images
good at putting puzzles together
good at interpreting pictures, graphs, and charts
enjoys drawing, painting, and other visual arts

Bodily-kinesthetic

Bodily-Kinesthetic intelligence is the ability to use mental abilities to coordinate bodily movements. Individuals with strong Bodily-Kinesthetic intelligence are good at body movement and perfection of skills through mind–body union. They have excellent hand-eye coordination and dexterity, as well as a keen sense of body awareness.

Characteristics of Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence

able to control voluntary body movements
excellent physical coordination
possess strong mind and body connection
good at sports and dance
communicates well with body language
express themselves through the body

Musical-rhythmic

Musical-Rhythmic intelligence is the ability to recognize and compose musical pitches, tones, and rhythms. Individuals with a high Musical-rhythmic intelligence are good at recognizing tonal patterns, rhythms, and sounds. They are able to discern pitch, rhythm, and tone.

Characteristics of Musical-Rhythmic Intelligence

possess a sensitivity to sounds
good at remembering songs and melodies
good at understanding musical structure, rhythm, and notes
good at recognizing musical patterns and tones
good at creating and reproducing melodies and rhythms
Enjoys singing and playing musical instruments

Interpersonal

Interpersonal Intelligence is the ability to understand and interact effectively with other people. Individuals who possess strong Interpersonal intelligence can perceive and understand other people’s emotions, intentions, desires, and motivations. They are able to note distinctions among others, perceive moods and temperaments of others, as well as entertain multiple perspectives.

Characteristics of Interpersonal Intelligence

possess a sensitivity to other’s moods, temperaments, motivations, and feelings
possess the ability to discern other’s underlying intentions and behavior
Collaborates well in a group
good at communicating verbally and nonverbally
good at creating positive relationships with others
good at resolving conflict

Intrapersonal

Intrapersonal intelligence is the ability to understand oneself and one’s thoughts. Individuals who are strong in Intrapersonal intelligence are aware of their own emotional states, feelings, fears, and motivations. They tend to know what they can and cannot do, what they want to do, and how they react in certain situations. They use that knowledge to plan and direct their life.

Characteristics of Intrapersonal Intelligence

mindful
spiritual
self-aware
good at self-reflection
good at analyzing their strengths and weaknesses
good at understanding their own motivations and feelings

Naturalistic

Naturalistic Intelligence is the ability to understand living things (plants, animals) as well as sensitivity to other features of the natural world (clouds, rock configurations). Individuals who are strong in Naturalistic Intelligence are in tune with nature and are often interested in nurturing, exploring the environment, and learning about other species.

Characteristics of Naturalistic Intelligence

possess an awareness of changes in weather
good at recognizing one’s connection to nature
good at applying science theory to life
good at growing plants
good at taking care of animals
enjoys camping, gardening, hiking and exploring the outdoors

Existential Intelligence

Existential intelligence is the ability to conceptualize or grapple with the deeper questions about human existence. Individuals who are strong in Existential intelligence are not afraid to tackle thinking about questions that revolve around such issues as the meaning of life. They will contemplate questions like why we are born, why we die, or how did we get here.

Characteristics of Existential Intelligence