What is it?
Verbal/Linguistic intelligence refers to the way we understand language and patterns that exist in its structure. We learn these patterns not just through reading and writing, but also through speech, touch and listening. As we grow and develop this intelligence, it incorporates more complex vocabulary as well as language concepts such as tone, inflection, expression and narrative reasoning.
Everyday use of this intelligence
One of the most common examples of this intelligence can be found in story-telling as we read, write and communicate with others around us. This type of intelligence is supported whenever we do this, and as narratives form patterns that we can interpret and understand.
Who is the student with this Intelligence?
A student with this intelligence will often demonstrate well-developed language and strong communication skills. They are able to express themselves well in terms of both oral and written work. They will often recall prior knowledge with little or no prompting, and use clues hidden in texts to interpret or create narratives.
Adult Examples
R.L. Stine -Goosebumps
Dr. Seuss (Theodor Geisel)
Roald Dahl
John Steinbeck – Of Mice and Men
William Shakespeare
Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens)
Richard Kipling –The Jungle Book
J.K Rowling
Agatha Christie
Career Choices
Legal assistant Librarian Manager Novelist Orator Philosopher Playwright
Poet Proof-reader Public Relations Person
Teacher Journalist Lawyer
Novelist Actor/Actress Writer Editor Motivational Speaker Preacher Radio/TV announcer
Reporter Sales Person Social Scientist Speech
Talk-show host Tour Guide/Travel Translator Politician
What Helps Them Learn?
Students with this intelligence thrive on the use of narratives and story-telling. Many cultures around the world use these techniques in oral traditions to share knowledge and ideas. Without a written language complex concepts are communicated down generations through stories. Finding ways to support this type of intelligence helps students to find patterns they can recognise and remember.
What hinders these students?
Often a mundane or unimaginative curriculum will lead to these students becoming restless and disengaged. Clinical curriculum models that focus only structure with a lack of creative stimulation can greatly hinder this student. These students will also often respond negatively to criticism, sarcasm, favouritism and belittling of their efforts.
What Activities Provide Learning for this Intelligence?
In the classroom a student with this intelligence can often benefit from audio recordings, films and written narratives. Student-centred learning approaches, peer teaching activities and opportunities to work co-operatively are all beneficial. The use of manipulatives, self-made displays, word games, narratives and metacognitive strategies (mnemonic devices) can all greatly benefit these students.
Tell a Story:
Pick a card from the set from a set of flash cards and make up a story that explains the picture.
You and your child could take it in turns to tell a story.
When your child is ready you could extend the activity by picking up three cards and including all three objects in your story.
Source: http://www.mylittlebookcase.com.au/books/book-list-alphabet-books/
