Choice Versus Obligation: A Comparison of Reading for Leisure and Reading for School
Reading is a polarizing subject. Some people adamantly refuse to pick up a book insisting it is a waste of time, while others always seem to have a book on the go. However, when it comes to assigned readings, even the most avid reader may find themselves procrastinating. Although, despite their differences in purpose, topics, and how they develop a reader’s skills, reading for leisure and school are equally beneficial activities.
An apparent difference between the two types of reading is the objective. If one chooses to read, then it is an expression of passion. Whether the reader picks an epic fantasy novel or an inspiring memoir, the purpose is self-fulfillment. It could serve as a way to kill time, learn something new, or escape the humdrum of everyday life, but ultimately, the reader is gleaning some sort of enjoyment from it. Conversely, reading for school is often much less fun. A professor may state that the purpose is to learn the material, which is true, but it also provides an opportunity to learn discipline. Assigned literature works are usually drier than those chosen for leisure, which may lead to procrastination and skim-reading. However, if one does not thoroughly understand the presented information or avoids reading it altogether, one’s performance in class may suffer. Therefore, the reader must learn self-restraint and overcome the urge to procrastinate in order to succeed.
Reading by choice and reader by obligation also differ in topics. When choosing a book for one’s self, one often has a go-to genre. The works will also typically be about topics of enjoyment or those relevant to the reader. This can be beneficial in terms of self-betterment. If someone is passionate about the subject, they are more likely to retain the work’s information and message. For example, if a reader picks a book on anger management in hopes of curbing their nasty temper, they will think about the book more so than someone forced to read it. Although, people will generally stay in their comfort zones if given a choice. When readings are assigned, the topics generally fall outside most students’ preferred subject matter and genre. This may lead to pupils discovering new interests that they would never have unearthed alone. Reading for school also introduces serious or difficult topics that are often ignored because they are too dull or challenging. Being exposed to a multitude of topics and genres not only broadens a reader’s horizons but aids in creating well-rounded individuals.
Both reading for leisure and reading for school share the ability to improve critical thinking skills, although they have different methods of doing so. Reading by choice encourages it much more naturally but often only works on bookworms. When reading a novel, particularly of the fantasy variety, it is easy for dedicated fans to get invested in plot lines or character arcs. It is common to find entire essays penned by fans discussing why a character did what they did or how the story could progress past the ending. Mystery novels are another way to hone one’s critical mind. Readers have a chance to discover clues scattered throughout the text and try to deduce the solution. Unfortunately, it is unrealistic to expect everyone to take this initiative without prompting, making reading for school equally important. Like reading as a hobby, reading for school fosters deeper thinking but in a more compulsory manner. The assignments that accompany the readings tell the reader what to look for and what is expected. Whether the objective is to discuss the meaning behind a piece of symbolism, determine a character’s motives, or critique the work, the student must reflect on the text rather than engaging passively with it. These tasks provide pupils with the tools to think critically and hopefully encourage them to give reading for fun a try and remain critical when reading.
Naturally, some people do not enjoy reading, just as some dislike sports or art. Even if one loves it, it may seem daunting to get through a long, seemingly pointless article given for homework. However, reading and English classes, in general, are mandatory for a reason. Reading is a vital skill to have. Regardless of whether one reads for pleasure or only when forced to in an academic setting, reading has numerous benefits. While reading for leisure or school may differ in purpose, topics and how they develop a reader’s skills, neither activity is worthless.
