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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Multiple Intelligences in the Classroom
Theory of Multiple Intelligences
