Why teaching discrete subjects and avoiding topic teaching encourages reading for pleasure | Series 1, Episode 27

Episode 27 transcript

Why teaching discrete subjects and avoiding topic teaching encourages reading for pleasure

Teaching through separate subjects rather than big, overarching themes makes it much easier to get students hooked on reading for pleasure. When you focus on specific subjects, kids can dive deeper into what actually interests them, and their reading choices naturally line up with established genres and the way libraries organise books. This kind of structure gives them access to a wider and more meaningful variety of texts, encouraging them to explore independently and stick with reading longer.

Let’s talk about topic-based teaching. It often leads to what I’d call “theme-driven book picking” — the teacher selects books that match the topic rather than the students’ interests or abilities. It might look cohesive on the surface, but this approach can sideline entire genres, like poetry or classic literature, simply because they don’t fit the theme. It’s like trying to force a square peg into a round hole. In the end, students miss out on discovering books that truly resonate with them, which, let’s be honest, can really dampen their enthusiasm for reading.

Teaching by subject, however, feels more purposeful. The reading materials are tied directly to what the students are learning, which makes the whole experience feel more connected and intentional. This way, educators can ensure kids encounter a variety of books that not only support their studies but also spark their curiosity. And because you’re not stretching to fit random books into an unrelated theme, the quality of the learning experience stays intact. It’s a win-win: students get the joy of reading, and teachers maintain meaningful educational content.

Here’s the downside of theme-based teaching: it can end up feeling a bit shallow. Sometimes, in the quest to make everything “on theme,” activities and reading choices get watered down. For instance, imagine a topic like “Crime and Punishment.” You might find yourself cobbling together books and activities that, frankly, don’t add much value beyond sticking to the theme. It’s fun for a moment, sure, but does it deepen understanding or foster a genuine love for literature? Probably not. Worse, it might even make reading feel trivial.

On the flip side, subject-based teaching supports steady, meaningful progress in reading skills. It gives educators room to focus on building students’ foundational knowledge in specific areas, which is crucial for developing critical thinking and interpretation. Students benefit from having clear goals and the chance to really dig into texts that challenge them. This kind of deep engagement makes reading more than just an academic exercise — it becomes something personally enriching.

There’s another major bonus: subject-based teaching helps avoid the boredom that can creep in with forced, one-size-fits-all reading assignments. When kids get to pick books within a subject they’re already interested in, they’re far more likely to enjoy the experience. It’s all about giving them a sense of autonomy — and that’s a powerful motivator. By offering a structured variety of books, educators can help students discover the pure joy of reading, tailored to their own preferences.

Another perk? Subject teaching exposes students to a broader range of literary styles and forms. Think about it: science lessons could feature science fiction, history classes might dive into historical novels, and biology could introduce nature poetry. This kind of approach not only widens their literary horizons but also shows them how literature connects to the real world — and their own lives. It’s the kind of learning that sticks.

If schools really want to help kids develop a love for reading, they should prioritise subject-based teaching. It provides the structure, variety, and relevance needed to make reading both educational and genuinely enjoyable. By aligning books with specific subjects, teachers can create a learning environment that’s both engaging and effective. The result? Students who see reading not as a chore but as a lifelong source of inspiration, knowledge, and joy. And isn’t that what we’re all aiming for?