Multiple Intellegiences
Psychologist Howard Gardner developed the theory of multiple intelligences in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s (Gardner, 2006). The eight identified intelligences include linguistic intelligence, logical-mathematical intelligence, spatial intelligence, musical intelligence, bodily-kinesthetic intelligence, naturalistic intelligence, interpersonal intelligence, intrapersonal intelligence, and existential intelligence (PBS, 2013). As a writer and illustrator Carle demonstrates two of these intelligences: linguistic and spatial.
Linguistic Intelligence
Linguistic intelligence is defined as the ability to use language in written and oral expression to aid in remembering, solving problems, and seeking new answers to old problems (Gallagher & Gallagher, 1994). As a writer, Carle attempted to solve the problem of a child’s transition from home to school. He believed this transition could be very traumatic and was quoted as saying:
With many of my books I attempt to bridge the gap between the home and school. To me home represents, or should represent; warmth, security, toys, holding hands, being held. School is a strange and new place for a child. Will it be a happy place? There are new people, a teacher, classmates—will they be friendly? (E. Carle, n.d)
The secret of Carle’s books’ appeal lies in his intuitive understanding of and respect for children, who sense in him instinctively someone who shares their most cherished thoughts and emotions (Eric-Carle.com, 2013)
Spatial Intelligence
Spatial intelligence is the ability to use spatial configurations that are important in pattern recognition (Gallagher & Gallagher, 1994). As an artist, Carle’s artwork is created through a collage technique that uses hand-painted papers. Carle cuts and layers the paper to make bright, colorful, and cheerful images. Several of his books also have added dimensions such as twinkling lights and chirping sounds to make them seem more lifelike.
Psychologist Howard Gardner developed the theory of multiple intelligences in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s (Gardner, 2006). The eight identified intelligences include linguistic intelligence, logical-mathematical intelligence, spatial intelligence, musical intelligence, bodily-kinesthetic intelligence, naturalistic intelligence, interpersonal intelligence, intrapersonal intelligence, and existential intelligence (PBS, 2013). As a writer and illustrator Carle demonstrates two of these intelligences: linguistic and spatial.
Linguistic Intelligence
Linguistic intelligence is defined as the ability to use language in written and oral expression to aid in remembering, solving problems, and seeking new answers to old problems (Gallagher & Gallagher, 1994). As a writer, Carle attempted to solve the problem of a child’s transition from home to school. He believed this transition could be very traumatic and was quoted as saying:
With many of my books I attempt to bridge the gap between the home and school. To me home represents, or should represent; warmth, security, toys, holding hands, being held. School is a strange and new place for a child. Will it be a happy place? There are new people, a teacher, classmates—will they be friendly? (E. Carle, n.d)
The secret of Carle’s books’ appeal lies in his intuitive understanding of and respect for children, who sense in him instinctively someone who shares their most cherished thoughts and emotions (Eric-Carle.com, 2013)
Spatial Intelligence
Spatial intelligence is the ability to use spatial configurations that are important in pattern recognition (Gallagher & Gallagher, 1994). As an artist, Carle’s artwork is created through a collage technique that uses hand-painted papers. Carle cuts and layers the paper to make bright, colorful, and cheerful images. Several of his books also have added dimensions such as twinkling lights and chirping sounds to make them seem more lifelike.