Theory of Multiple Intelligences

All children are gifted

OPA incorporates the Theory of Multiple Intelligences as the foundation of our school’s philosophy. This theory states that each of us possess at least eight intelligences that characterize the way we learn. Utilizing this theory as an instructional approach increases retention, thereby, producing optimum academic success for our students. The goal is to create a school environment that focuses on the following premise: all children can learn, and all are gifted.

All children can learn

Teaching the State Standards through all eight intelligences allows students to learn, comprehend, and retain information due to receiving instruction in a variety of methodologies. As all eight intelligences are addressed, we optimize the learning styles and modalities of all the students in our classes. Empowering children to think, create, and explore ensures that they will successfully meet the state adopted standards.

The Eight Domains of Intelligence

Word Smart	Number Smart	Picture Smart	Music Smart

Linguistic	Logical/Mathematical	Spatial	Musical

LIKES TO read write tell stories give speeches tell jokes/spin tall tales	LIKES TO do experiments figure things out work with numbers ask questions analyze & make predictions	LIKES TO draw, build, design & create things daydream view pictures/movies see/use colors	LIKES TO sing and hum tunes listen to music play an instrument collect CDs watch musicals
EXCELS AT memorizing trivia writing using extensive vocabulary spelling playing word games	EXCELS AT mathematics reasoning logic problem solving using technology	EXCELS AT using imagination sensing environment mazes/puzzles reading maps & charts visual arts	EXCELS AT picking up sounds remembering melodies noticing pitches/rhythms keeping time singing songs
LEARNS BEST BY reading writing speaking hearing & seeing language discussions and debates humor incorporated in learning	LEARNS BEST BY categorizing classifying working with abstract patterns/relationships using the computer making time to complete tasks	LEARNS BEST BY visualizing dreaming stimulating environment working with colors/pictures audio/visual materials	LEARNS BEST BY rhythms, rhyme & repetition information put to a beat playing music while working performing in skits & musicals using song lyrics to memorize

Body Smart	People Smart	Self Smart	Nature Smart

Bodily/Kinesthetic	Interpersonal	Intrapersonal	Naturalist

LIKES TO move around work with hands use body language exercise gesture frequently	LIKES TO solve problems talk to people join groups and clubs be a leader have lots of friends	LIKES TO work independently pursue own interests have strong opinions work on independent games have many choices	LIKES TO garden hike, camp, walk & climb care for pets & wildlife recycle spend time outdoors
EXCELS AT physical activities sports/dance crafts drama/acting mechanics	EXCELS AT understanding people leading others socializing persuading others mediating conflicts	EXCELS AT understanding self focusing inward on feelings/ dreams pursuing interests & goals being original	EXCELS AT collecting categorizing recognizing plants & animals understanding native surroundings recycling
LEARNS BEST BY doing moving role playing hands-on experiences action packed stories/drama	LEARNS BEST BY working in a group cooperating with others sharing their ideas communicating debating	LEARNS BEST BY individualized projects self-paced instruction having private space & time working independently reflecting, thinking, & visualizing	LEARNS BEST BY classifying information observing doing experiments using telescopes & binoculars exploring the environment