An Example For Putting Multiple Intelligences Together to Teach English

Multiple intelligence theory is great, but how to put multiple intelligence to use in the English language learning classroom? Here is an example of a lesson focusing on the use of expressions of quantity. Each exercise in the lesson focuses on a different type of intelligence. You can use them together if dividing students into small groups according to their type of intelligence , or with the whole class by applying more than one type.

Aim: Focus on expressions of quantity used with countable and uncountable nouns

Activity: Focus on using multiple intelligences

Level: intermediate

Outline:

• Verbal / Linguistic Intelligence: Ask students a variety of questions using how much and how many. Discuss the differences between the two and explain countable and uncountable nouns and the role each plays in using expressions of quantity.
• Visual / Spatial Intelligence: Provide students with a number of magazines. Ask them to cut out pictures and match to expressions of quantity such as 'a few', 'a little', 'a number of', etc.
• Logical Intelligence: Provide a list of expressions of quantity. Divide the list into three columns, one with expressions of quantity used only in the singular with uncountable nouns, another with countable nouns, and the third with expressions quantity that can be used for both countable and uncountable nouns. On another piece of paper, provide a list of common nouns. Ask students to use an expression of quantity with each noun.
• Kinesthetic Intelligence: Place countable and uncountable objects around the room, ask students to take objects and place them under categories. You can use either individual expressions of quantity, or two categories: countable nouns / uncountable nouns.
• Musical Intelligence: Use a grammar chant to help out through repetition. 
• Interpersonal: Provide students with some imaginary items which are both countable and uncountable. Ask students to barter for these items using expressions of quantity. For example: I'll give you a few apples for some milk.

MI Theory in teaching English Language ...

Here's a quick overview of multiple intelligences as applied to English language teaching:

• Verbal / Linguistic - Learning English through the use of words. A great example of this type of English learning is standard teacher centered learning. The teacher explains an English learning objective and the students learn. However, students can also learn through explaining English to each other.
• Visual / Spatial - Learning English through visual means including charts, graphs, maps, etc. Any type of English learning activity that asks students to interpret visual information can contribute to visual or spatial intelligence. Vocabulary trees are also a great example of using visual intelligence to improve English vocabulary skills.
• Logical - Learning English through the use of logical deduction. Understanding the rules of grammar and applying them when diagraming sentences is a perfect example of logical intelligence used in an English teaching setting.
• Kinesthetic - Learning English through physical engagement. Typing is a great example of kinesthetic learning. Many English learners improve their spelling skills by typing out and using word processing programs. Fun games such as acting out 'heads, shoulders, knees and toes' are also examples of kinesthetic English learning activities.
• Musical Intelligence - Learning English through song. Any student who sings along with their favorite pop star in English is using musical intelligence to acquire English language skills.
• Interpersonal - English learning through group activities. Some students really enjoy group work, these students probably enjoy using their interpersonal intelligence to acquire skills in a second language - English.

Some Ideas to Use The MI Survey Results

To apply what you have learned about MI Theory , first you will need a  Teacher Quick Reference Form to record all the student survey scores on one page - the form is ready for those who need it , just contact me on guideofteaching@gmail.com and i will send it to you- .

Using this quick reference can give you valuable information about each student and the class as a whole !

During the studying year you will be able to use your information to do different things :

- Design and prepare variable learning activities .

  You can design lesson plans that engage multiple intelligence instead of counting on the traditional ways.

this doesn't mean that you must develop eight different activities for every lesson ! it just means that you should be aware of different learning styles and provide a variety of pathways to learning for each topic studied. 

- Divide your class into small groups. 

Counting on the results reference that you will fill up , you can divide students in your class by different ways , you may group students with similar abilities and types of intelligence to do their activities cooperatively. 

or you may group them with a variety of different strengths ! according to your aims , and your designed activity. But in all cases you'll be forming team based on their strengths. 

- Solving students' difficulties problems.

By taking a look to your reference sheet , you will easily recognize the points of strengths that a weak student in your class has. 

you can easily teach him in a way that is more meaningful for him , if you can present the material in a way that makes use of your students' strengths.

Coming up with more useful details soon :)

More About ( Mathematical - Logical ) People

People who are strong in the Mathematical - Logical area are sometimes called Math Smart. They like using numbers and mathematical symbols to help them understand new concepts. They enjoy solving problems, experimenting, and using logical reasoning to figure things out. They ask a lot of questions and enjoy playing strategy games that involve thinking and planning ahead. They tend to understand new math ideas easily and are strong in math computation. 

More About ( Verbal - Linguistic ) People

People who are strong in the Verbal - Linguistic area are sometimes called Word Smart because they communicate  well using spoken or written language. They are generally good at writing and spelling, and they enjoy reading for pleasure. They like word games as well as riddles, jokes, and puns. Verbal - Linguistic people have large, descriptive vocabularies, and they enjoy learning new words. They learn new information best through reading, writing, and listening. 

More About ( Musical -Rhythmic ) People

People who are Musical - Rhythmic enjoy listening to and creating music. They like to communicate their thoughts and  feelings through music. They can read and understand musical symbols easily. They may enjoy playing and instrument, singing, composing music, or writing song lyrics. They may create musical instruments from things around them such as sticks, cans  or rocks. Music and rhythm help them learn. 

More About ( Visual - Spatial ) People

People who are Visual - Spatial are sometimes called Art Smart, although they aren't always artistic in the traditional sense.

Visual/Spatial individuals tend to think in visual images and learn best when material is presented through pictures, charts, diagrams, and graphic organizers. They often enjoy drawing and designing, using color and /or shapes in pleasing ways, or arranging objects. They usually have a good sense of direction and can read maps easily.