MI: Teaching Students about MI Theory (Chapter 4)

     The fourth chapter of Multiple Intelligences in the Classroom, by Thomas Armstrong, focused on teaching students about the MI Theory. Due to the theory's relative simplicity it can be explained to children as young as first grade. I thought the way that the author introduced MI Theory to the students was perfect; he was both direct and thorough. Armstrong talked about the “'MI Pizza' (a circle divided into eight slices)" (pg.45), in each slice he would place two items representing an intelligence, both a symbol and a simplified name for it (“word smart” instead of “linguistic”). He would then ask extremely basic questions to elicit participation from the class, such as “who can read?” Armstrong's intention was to show the children that each of them are intelligent in every area. This kind of effort will help students build the self-confidence needed to develop their skills. For Career Day, it was suggested that the teacher allow representatives of each intelligence to attend as a way to help students bridge connections between their own abilities and the possibilities for success. For example, having a veterinarian as a representative for naturalist could inspire those within your class that have that learning style. Teaching your students about MI Theory has its benefits, studies have shown that students that can relate what they have learned back to themselves are more successful. With that in mind, as a teacher I promise to provide opportunities for all eight intelligences.