Two Questions to Ponder

Two seemingly similar questions to think about:

1. How intelligent are you?
2. How are you intelligent are you?

 The first question is one that we are more likely to consider a narrow focus for an answer, perhaps an IQ test score would be a measure to use for defining how intelligent you might be.

The second question I believe is far more valid.  Howard Gardner developed the multiple intelligences theory.  This takes a far more broad view on intelligence, with eight intelligence areas having been identified:

• Visual-spatial
• Verbal-linguistic
• Logical-mathematical
• Bodily-kinesthetic
• Musical-rhythmic
• Interpersonal
• Intrapersonal
• Naturalistic

A student who has difficulty with mathematics (logical mathematical) may have a gift for playing the piano (musical-rhymthic).  A student who have trouble with reading (verbal-linguistic) may be a gifted dancer (body-kinesthetic).

Just because a student struggles in one area, it does mean that he/she is not intelligent.  As teacher we need to recognise the many ways in which children demonstrate intelligence, which will in turn make them more engaged students at with their learning.