Intelligence is mostly understood in a narrow way within the society.

Some people assume that having high grades for mathematics or science means high intelligence; while some people think the ability to acquire many languages means high intelligence.

Gardner, Professor of Education at Harvard University, refused the idea of a “single intelligence” that dictate the meaning of intelligence for every person. Instead, he came up with the idea of multiple intelligence.

In the school context, it is very important to apply and develop the concept of multiple intelligence; however teachers often find difficulties in applying it to lesson plans.

The application of multiple intelligence can open up students’ mind about “what is intelligence” and whether they are “intelligent”, aside from the popular perception of the term. This can also invite the students to be more creative in learning.

This example can be applied in various topics or lesson objectives, for instance language ability (stories), essay, history, even science.

In this example, the learning objective is dissecting a story for its chronology, character, and moral message.

1. Verbal-Linguistic (Words)

Write a story, poetry, or script out a monologue.

2. Mathematical-Logical

Explain the logic or theory behind decision-making in the story or using numbers to relate to the stories.

3. Music

Compose or discuss a song that are related to the story.

4. Visual-Spatial

Draw, paint, or collect images/pictures/paintings to show the understanding of the story.

5. Bodily-Kinaesthetic

Game of charades with the audience or dance.

6. Interpersonal (Communication)

Write a play or pretend news story to be delivered by the student or other classmates.

7. Intrapersonal (Self)

Present a journal or diary describing any changes of behaviour, habits, or greater self-understanding.

8. Naturalist

Describe what you learn using nature, such as plants or animals.

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