Multiple ways of knowing
Interpersonal intelligence is evident in those who enjoy working with others. They may show leadership skills or a knack for helping others; they enjoy group activities, social events and time spent with friends.
Intrapersonal intelligence is the awareness of self. It is demonstrated by those who are self-directed and in touch with their own feelings, needs and dreams. These people enjoy time alone to consider and plan; they may keep journals or diaries, and may prefer working alone and setting their own pace whenever possible. Awareness of the spiritual realm also is a form of intrapersonal intelligence.
Gardner holds that intelligence is not simply a fixed asset, but a tool in the process of learning. Intelligence can be shaped and developed to meet changing needs. It is more than a learned set of facts, but a way of considering facts. Each intelligence is necessary to the process.
Thomas Armstrong, author of In Their Own Way states that too many children experience difficulties in school because our present system teaches only to a few of the intelligences. By incorporating activities that appeal to all seven ways of knowing, we can help more children be successful in school and beyond.
To awaken and exercise each intelligence in yourself or your child, practice using them everyday. Here are some activities that will appeal to each intelligence.
Keep a journal to help awaken linguistic intelligence. Detail your day, or write about an ordinary moment in a way that makes it sound like the most important event in your life. Another idea is to publish a family newsletter.
Use organizational skills and exercises in logic to develop logical-mathematical intelligence. List 25 key things that happened to you in the past week. Identify the items that have something in common, and name the pattern in each group. Develop ways to organize your belongings. Balance your checkbook.
Visual-spatial intelligence can be practiced by painting or sculpting; visiting art museums; redecorating a room; studying maps; or working jigsaw puzzles or mazes.
Many activities exercise bodily-kinesthetic skills, including swimming, biking, or even walking; crafts such as sewing or woodworking; and performing arts such as dance or acting.
Musical intelligence is engaged simply by listening to music or sitting outside and focusing on the sounds and rhythms of nature. Try singing or learning an instrument. Those with more developed skills might even try writing songs or instrumental pieces.
Develop interpersonal intelligence by spending time with other people and trying to understand their
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