Multiple Intelligences is the common sense idea that there exist many ways to be smart, and that we are more successful when we develop and deploy a wide range of intelligences. What constitutes an intelligence? That is a complicated question of which researchers disagree. Here is a list of eight intelligences developed by Howard Gardner, the most famous researcher of Multiple Intelligences.

1. Verbal-Linguistic Intelligence – Skill with using language, whether speaking or writing.
2. Logical-Mathematical Intelligence – Skill with reasoning and calculating.
3. Visual-Spatial Intelligence – Skill with drawing and other visual arts, as well as mapping.
4. Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence – Skill with movement, such as playing sports and dancing.
5. Musical-Rhythmic Intelligence – Skill with performing and composing music and poetry.
6. Interpersonal Intelligence – Skill at understanding and cooperating with others.
7. Intrapersonal Intelligence – Skill at understanding oneself and the ability to use one’s strengths to overcome weakness.
8. Naturalist Intelligence – Skill at categorizing and observing, as well as enjoyment of spending time in nature and concern for protecting nature.

While interpersonal intelligence presents perhaps the strongest connection between CL and Multiple Intelligences Theory, all the intelligences can help groups succeed at their joint goals of: (1) doing their assigned tasks and (2) supporting the learning and development of all their group members.

One way to combine CL with Multiple Intelligences Theory involves groups doing multiple-ability tasks, i.e., tasks that require more than one intelligence. For example, in a language class, student could use their Verbal-Linguistic Intelligence to read and then write an essay, and their Logical-Mathematical Intelligence to organize the essay and make their ideas clearer and persuasive. Also, the task could be expanded to include Visual-Spatial Intelligence with the addition of infographics to accompany the essay, and Musical-Rhythmic Intelligence with the addition of poems or dramatizations that illustrate keys ideas in the essay.