I am an advocate of the Multiple Intelligences Theory, which is based on the idea that all individuals possess many different types of intelligences, and each of these can be better developed over time with practice. The most recognized seven would be: linguistic intelligence, logical-mathematical intelligence, spatial intelligence, bodily-kinesthetic intelligence, musical intelligence, interpersonal intelligence and intrapersonal intelligence. Strategies that incorporate energy spent exercising each of these areas will be the goal of this, and I imagine, every unit.
The ideas behind developing each of our many intelligences are numerous. For one, practice makes perfect. Well, maybe not exactly- but that adage gets the point across. If students get practice in each of these areas, in time they will be able to better identify where they are strong and where they are weak. Second, practice can only increase logical thinking skills which are critical to effective problem solving both inside and outside of the classroom. Lastly, identification of strength in an area that a student didn’t think she/he was strong will bring forth further confidence in the student that will assist in more than just problem solving.
In addition, students learn in different ways. Some may be visual learners while others are auditory learners while still others are emotional learners. Ultimately all types of learners would be satisfied if lesson plans are of a diverse, multifaceted nature.
Effective teaching strategies that would be conducive for learning while also engaging one/some/all of these intelligences and the different types of learning styles could be some of the following:
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-Lessons that focus less on lecture and more on activities.
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-Activities with some sort of movement/motion are included.
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-Assessments are of many type, ie. written, verbal, illustrated, performed.
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-Composing lyrics to sing over well-known song or rap (see Appendix G).
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-Group Activities and cooperative learning.
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-Journal activities where students reflect thoughts and ideas.
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-Written assignments could include poems, stories, research papers.
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-Verbal assignments could include oral presentation or performance.
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-Illustrated assignments could include drawings, models, posters or games.
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-Performed assignments could be directed activity or a dance or song.
