Multiple Intelligences

Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences transcends the boundaries of how we have traditionally looked at learning. Today's children will not thrive by simply mastering literacy and mathematics; they will need to be real-world problem solvers who understand how to access and manipulate all kinds of information in order to be productive. The multiple intelligences theory provides us with the tools to meet this challenge today.

Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences includes the following areas:

• Linguistic intelligence ("word smart"):
• Logical-mathematical intelligence ("number/reasoning smart")
• Spatial intelligence ("picture smart")
• Bodily-Kinesthetic intelligence ("body smart")
• Musical intelligence ("music smart")
• Interpersonal intelligence ("people smart")
• Intrapersonal intelligence ("self smart")
• Naturalist intelligence ("nature smart")

Many education theorists believe that children learn best when working thorough their strengths. When we learn to identify children’s strengths we are better able to accommodate children to their orientation of learning.

Different By Design provides opportunities for all children to work through their strengths and experience success. In addition, many of the projects provide choices for students to decide how they wish to demonstrate their understanding of the skills and ideas they have mastered.