I want my children to understand the world, but not just because
the world is fascinating and the human mind is curious. I want them
to understand it so that they will be positioned to make it a better place.
(Howard Gardner 1999: 180-181)
the world is fascinating and the human mind is curious. I want them
to understand it so that they will be positioned to make it a better place.
(Howard Gardner 1999: 180-181)
One of my favourite "first week" activities to do with students of all ages is an MI survey.
In 1983, a psychologist by the name of Howard Gardiner wrote a book called Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple Intelligences. (He has since published several related books, including MI, New Horizons in 2006.) Gardiner believes that each person has many different types of intelligence, and that some are stronger than others.
I like to begin the school year by having students take a short survey, then transfer their results onto a graph. It's a nice intro to graphing, as well as being a great way to get the students thinking about the diversity of learners in our classroom and their own unique learning profiles within the context of the class. We post the graphs on a bulletin board entitled "HOW are You Smart?", which makes a great visual for parent night in the fall.
One challenge I have found is how to do the MI survey with primary and/or ESL learners. I have simplified the language in the original survey I had, however, it is still a little overwhelming for students beginning grade 3, I think. So, this year I put the survey onto ppt, and hope to find a way to show it visually and read it out loud to my students. They can transfer the results directly onto their graphs, then cut out their profiles. (If I remember, I'll post a photo later next week of what this looks like when complete.)
| how_are_you_smart_mi.pptx |
Although the "kid-friendly" version of the MI quiz included above may not be perfect, it still offers a great way to introduce your students to the idea that people may be intelligent in different ways, further, that we all learn differently.
Google "Multiple Intelligences" for a host of alternate versions of the quiz and further info... Here are a few links to get you started:
Armstrong's Intro to DI
Sample Tests
Below is the graph onto which to transfer results.
Google "Multiple Intelligences" for a host of alternate versions of the quiz and further info... Here are a few links to get you started:
Armstrong's Intro to DI
Sample Tests
Below is the graph onto which to transfer results.
If you are doing this with your class, I encourage YOU and your student teachers, TAs, or any other adults regularly in your room to participate as well. It's important for children to see that we are ALL learners!
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