Use of multiple intelligences by role-play method

Abstract

Using the non-formal method of role-playing in a transdisciplinary format, combining history and French language, aimed to adapt teaching and learning methods to meet the need for lifelong learning skills development. The proposed objectives were: to train sustainable learning skills, develop competences for an interdisciplinary approach to the knowledge of history and French, and foster critical thinking, creativity, and text interpretation abilities. 

A 5th-grade middle school class was selected, and the transdisciplinary history project was implemented under the theme The Gallic Wars: Asterix versus Julius Caesar, through the collaboration of history and French teachers. The project took place over six hours across both subjects. Students were divided into two camps - Gauls and Romans - chose their characters, conducted research on the historical events and key figures involved, and concluded with a role-playing activity simulating the final confrontation, performed in both Romanian and French. 

Students expanded their knowledge of history and French by engaging in role-play and demonstrated their ability to communicate and collaborate effectively through teamwork. They successfully applied vocabulary and grammar elements and incorporated theatrical expression in the final presentation of the project. 

Through this active method, role-playing, knowledge acquisition in both subjects was greatly facilitated, as it combined intellectual and physical aspects of learning. It helped students develop social and linguistic skills, improved their concentration, and enabled them to more easily assimilate prose elements and pronunciation in a contextualised setting. Furthermore, it supported vocabulary acquisition in both French and history and boosted students’ confidence in their ability to learn a foreign language.