Multiple Intelligences and Learner Activities

Here are some different learning activities grouped by Howard Gardner’s multiple intelligences. Be sure to honor all the different intelligences in your session.

Intelligence	Learner Activities
Interpersonal	Work in teams or pairs Provide ground rules emphasizing collaboration Debrief exercises Swap leaders and mix up teams Do role plays Create and perform skits Think aloud Have Group discussions Discuss Case studies Rotate leadership Play Games/collaboration Perform problem solving in groups Brainstorm Do introductions Do peer teaching—structured/spontaneous Ask open-ended questions Make people co-presenters Do ideas swaps
Logical/mathematical	Use checklists Analyze / Identify pros and cons Develop flow charts / diagrams Make lists Solve problems Categorize and prioritize Linear-fashioned class Case studies requiring analysis and problem solving Have logic tests, problems and challenges Include the “why’s” in content Share expertise with peers Do Hands on labs Make and/or solve creative puzzles Use formulas Provide detailed instructions Do Quizzes and tests with right/wrong answer Analyze and create flow charts and process diagrams Structure the content Perform individual exercises and compare results
Spatial/visual	Guide learners in visualization and Imagery Make / show charts and diagrams Create art work and posters Construct complex models Create mind maps
Musical	Guide learners in Imagery to music Writing songs / raps Play music during activities * Play instruments * Performing rhythmic activities *
Linguistic/verbal	Paraphrase Write poems, stories, imageries Create mnemonics / acronyms Design Q&A Write skits Deliver lecturettes Do crosswords and word searches
Intrapersonal	Reflect Set goals Do self-analysis and self-assessments Guide learners in visualization and Imagery Do crosswords and word searches Develop progress plans
Bodily/kinesthetic	Physically act out product or process * Perform role plays Use emotion-packed stories and metaphors Provide hard-copy job aids (tactile) Do scavenger hunts Do hands-on labs

* Can be challenging in the virtual classroom

Adapted from Frames of Mind, Howard Gardner, Basic Books, NY, 1985