One of the best ways to teach Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences is to have an active discussion in which students talk about their own skills. This lesson plan starts with a lecture on Gardner's theory. In this lecture, describe each of the eight types of intelligence, and give examples. For example; when describing kinesthetic intelligence, provide an example of an athlete who mastered his sport at a very young age. Once you explain the intelligences, have a class discussion, during which your students explain which skills come easily to them. Tell your students to which intelligences their favorite activities correspond.
You can build a very strong lesson plan on multiple intelligences using worksheets. A worksheet on multiple intelligences should include one activity for each of the eight intelligences. For example; an activity sheet can include a multiplication problem for the section on logical-mathematical intelligence. Of course; simply filling out a worksheet does not constitute a lesson plan in and of itself. To round out the lesson, ask the students which questions they found easiest and which they found hardest, and tell them to which intelligences their best sections correspond.
In his book "Frames of Mind," Howard Gardner identified several people who demonstrate one or more of the intelligences he conceived of as part of his theory. Facts about famous people who are highly gifted in a few key areas can form the basis of a lesson plan. Before class, make a list of people who are highly accomplished in each of the eight areas Gardner associates with "intelligences." Take a class period or two to explain each of the eight intelligences, using the people you chose as examples.
Multiple intelligence theory is somewhat controversial. While Gardner's theory is not without support, the "G" (one factor) theory of intelligence is much more popular among psychologists. If you are teaching a mature or advanced group of students (for example, AP Psych 12th graders), you can teach them the controversies surrounding "G" theory and multiple intelligence theory. One lesson plan involves pitting the two theories in opposition against one another. In this lesson, take one class period to describe "G" theory, and another lesson to explain why multiple intelligence theory is considered a viable alternative to "G" theory. Use Gardner's "Frames of Mind" for a basic overview of both theories.