Verbal/Linguistic Intelligence

Verbal/linguistic intelligence (see Graphic 12a) is responsible for the production of language and all the complex possibilities that follow, including poetry, humor, story telling, grammar, metaphors, similes, abstract reasoning, symbolic thinking, conceptual patterning, and of course, the written word. Verbal/linguistic intelligence is awakened by the spoken word; by reading someone’s ideas or poetry; and by writing one’s own ideas, thoughts or poetry.

Capacities involved:

• Understanding order and meaning of words
• Convincing someone of a course of action
• Explaining, teaching and learning
• Humor
• Memory and recall
• “Meta-linguistic” analysis

To activate this intelligence:

• Read a story you enjoy and write your own sequel – “what happens next?”
• Listen to someone expound on their ideas and have a discussion with them.
• Learn the meaning of one interesting, new word each day and practice using it.
• Make a speech on a topic about which you have a great deal of interest and excitement.
• Keep a journal or log in which you write your reflections about events from the day.

To strengthen this intelligence:

• Creative writing, impromptu speaking, learning and using new words, formal speech, debtae, formal composition and story telling and invention.

Vocational pursuits:

Public speaking, novelist, poet, journalist, comedian, play writing, newscasting, story telling, writing.

(Original page by Mary Frangie)