Learning Styles in the classroom
By MARISSA DESPINS Updated March 28, 2023
Learning styles, and the theory of multiple intelligences, refer to the way students prefer to absorb and understand information. There are many different types of learning styles, and many educators believe that students can be taught more effectively by altering assignments and instructions to cater to particular learning styles.
It has been argued that accommodating individual learning styles does not have an impact on classroom learning, behavior, performance of intelligence. That being said, many also swear by these learning styles and strategies, and have found a marked improvement in student learning and retention. I have found teaching about the different styles to be incredibly beneficial in my middle school classroom.
Looking for some ready to teach resources to help you introduce learning styles in your classroom? Click on the image or button below to see the learning style resources available in my TPT shop!
What are the Different Learning Styles?
The different learning styles vary depending on the researchers you follow. I have found that the styles listed below are commonly agreed upon, and give me a clear picture of the types of learners in my classroom.
Types of Learning Styles
LOGICAL / MATHEMATICAL: These learners like to use logic, reason, patterns, and systems. Math tends to come easily to these types of learners.
SPATIAL: Spatial learners like using pictures, images, and mind maps. In addition, they like to see their ideas drawn out on paper.
AUDITORY / MUSICAL: These learners like using sound and music. Also, they prefer hearing information aloud.
INTRAPERSONAL: Intrapersonal learners prefer to study alone. Additionally, they prefer projects where they get to work by themselves.
INTERPERSONAL: These learners like to collaborate with others. As a result, they like sharing ideas and information with other people.
BODILY / KINESTHETIC: These types of learners prefer to use their body and sense of touch. Also, they tend to prefer learning that is hands-on.
VERBAL: Verbal learners like to use words. In addition, they like using words both in speech and writing.
Why should I use a Learning Style Inventory at the Start of the School Year?
Getting to know the learning styles of my students at the start of the school year has been incredibly effective. This way, I am able to switch up my lessons and projects to help meet the needs of the learners in my room.
Knowing their personal learning style is very helpful for students as well. First, knowing this important information helps them to take responsibility for their own learning. Also, it helps them to figure out the best ways for them to learn information.
How can I use a Learning Styles Inventory to Support the Learners in my Room?
The Learning Style Unit available in my TPT shop comes complete with a detailed Learning Style Inventory.
To complete the activity, students must first work through the included questions. Next, they tally up their scores using the included marking guide. When done, they are left with a clear picture of their personal learning strengths.
What are Some Ways I can Celebrate Student Learning Styles?
Once students have used the survey to uncover their learning strengths, I have students complete a variety of different activities to showcase their new found knowledge. All of the activities mentioned are included in the complete Learning Styles Unit available in my TPT shop.
Graphic Organizers and Foldable Activities
After, I have students complete a variety of graphic organizers and foldable activities. This helps students to learn more about the different learning styles, and ways they help them learn.
This activity is always a favorite with my learners, as it asks them to color the answers to a variety of comprehension questions relating to learning styles. It is so much more fun than simply writing down their answers, and it really helps them to understand the qualities of each of the different styles.
Back to School Bulletin Board Displays
To celebrate their learning at the end of the unit, I have students create bulletin board displays that showcase their learning strengths.
Two different image styles, along with a wide variety of head templates, are included in this resource. Students fill their templates with words, images, and sentences that best describe them as learners. I encourage students to make their images colorful, and even use magazine clippings if they like. Afterwards, they write about how knowing their learning styles can help them as classroom learners.
I love how these projects look when hung up in the hallway. They make a great back to school bulletin board display!
Snag all of the resources mentioned in this post by clicking here or on the image below!
Interested in seeing this Learning Styles Unit in action? Check out the YouTube video below!
For additional information to help you make this the best back to school season yet, check out our posts on 5 engaging back to school activities for middle school ELA and our essential activities for the first week!
Looking for a FREE resource to jumpstart your back to school planning?
Click here or on the image above to get your FREE back to school collage activity! This is a fun way to get to know your students at the start of the year, and the completed projects make gorgeous bulletin board displays!
Looking for more back to school activities?
Check out my previous blog posts below!
Back to School Resource Roundup
Mandala Art Projects for Back to School
Do Unto Otters – The Perfect Back to School Read Aloud
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