Passion centred learning focuses on things students are excited about, interested in, want to learn more about/or want to do more of. Whether it is learning to rock climb, galvanize our actions by increasing out focus, motivation and persistence on our preferred topic. Our increased attention and perseverance result in dopamine and endorphin production, resulting in skill-building and ultimately, increased enthusiasm and confidence. 

Kids are fascinated by new things! I mean, intently engaged, folks! Elementary students arrive each morning overflowing with enthusiasm about the cool rock they found on their way to school, the mystery they finished last night, the video game they played past their bedtime or the Pokemon card they hope to get tomorrow. If their breathless excitement can somehow be authentically applied to their reading and writing today, then suddenly you have a momentous opportunity! A wise teacher or parent can transform their interests-of-the-moment into passion-centred learning. 

When teachers align a student’s passion interest with their learning, it builds learner’s momentum. Beyond wanting students to be engaged, we want them to be empowered. When a student is excited about a topic, they talk to the teacher about it, share it with a peer and/or retell it to family. As a result of their reading, looking through a book, watching a documentary or listening to a podcast, the student took action. This is what passion-centred learning is all about. It is when we are motivated to take action! By making connections, reader build brain cells and make endorphins flow. As our brains are physiologically programmed to repeat actions that feel pleasurable, then fundamentally this means our young readers will want to get their hands on more books on topics they are excited about.