The document discusses the rationale and purposes of assigning work to students. It notes that assignments can serve different purposes depending on the subject, such as practicing math skills, understanding literature materials, or spending creative time in art classes. The type of assignments given depends on the teacher's pedagogical philosophy, such as a behaviorist approach focusing on reinforcement or a practical approach using open-ended projects. For language classes specifically, assignments are important for reinforcement and developing the neural connections needed for learning. Overall, assignments are essential for helping students become better readers and writers by spending more time engaged in the subject beyond classes.