Multiple Abilities/Intelligences

Linguistic- Word Smart

read about it, write about it, talk about it, listen to it

examples: science word games, use new science words in discussion, create a science
dictionary, science writers, reporters

beginning activity: long word on the blackboard

Logical-Mathematical- Minds-on Smart

quantify it, think critically about it, conceptualize it

examples: solve problems, create problems, ask questions, discussion and debates on
societal implications of science, create data tables and spreadsheets, finding analogies,
working problems backwards, using science processes

beginning activity: posing a logical paradox

Visual-Spatial- Picture Smart

see it, draw it, visualize it, color it, mind-map it.

examples: make diagrams of cells, atoms, earth systems, create video presentations,
mapping activities, make 3D models, flow charts, decision trees, concept maps, multi-
media presentation software, draw and paint computer software.

beginning activity: unusual picture on the overhead

Bodily-Kinesthetic- Hands-on Smart

build it, act it out, touch it, get a gut feeling of it, dance it

examples: build physical models, express science concepts with bodily motion, sensory
awareness activities, science probes (MBL, Science Toolkits)
beginning activity: mysterious artifact passed around the class

Musical- Rhythm and Tone Smart

sing it, rap it, listen to it

examples: find and use related songs, write and sing musical scores of science
concepts, play background music in class, use natural music and sounds (birds, nature)

beginning activity: piece of music played as students come into class

Interpersonal- Cooperative Smart

teach it, collaborate on it, interact with respect to it

examples: use cooperative groups, science board games, computer games for pairs or
groups, teach active listening, create a community of practice in class, networks, join
discussion groups

beginning activity: "Turn to a neighbor and share..."

Intrapersonal- Reflective Smart

connect it to your personal life, make choices with regard to it

examples: journaling activities, help students write goals and objectives, portfolios,
biographies, provide time for reflection, motivational speakers

beginning activity: "Close your eyes and think of a time in your life when..."

Naturalist- Ecologically Smart

sense it, feel it, experience it, relate it, think globally about it, be an activist about it

examples: sensory awareness activities, hikes and field trips into natural sites, mini-field
trips outside the classroom, readings from nature magazines, nature videos,
understanding, relating to and functioning in the natural world

beginning activity: "What does this leaf smell like?"