Definition

Noun: 1. A specific portion of text designated for study: A reading assignment is a task given by an instructor that requires a student to read and comprehend a defined section of written material, such as a chapter, article, or passage.

Usage

A "reading assignment" is a common academic task. It is typically given to prepare students for a class discussion, lecture, or assessment. The term refers to the task itself, not the act of reading it. - The teacher gives a reading assignment. - The student completes the reading assignment. - The reading assignment is due before the next class.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "Heavy reading assignment": Used to describe an assignment that involves a large volume or particularly complex material.
  • The syllabus shows a heavy reading assignment for the week before finals.
• "Background reading assignment": An assignment intended to provide foundational knowledge for a future topic.
  • As a background reading assignment, please review the introduction to the theory.

Variants and Related Words

• Assigned reading: A very close synonym, often used interchangeably with "reading assignment" to refer to the material itself.
  • The assigned reading for today is very insightful.
• Homework: A broader term that can include reading assignments along with other tasks like problem sets or essays.
• Readings (plural noun): Often used to refer collectively to multiple reading assignments or materials for a course.
  • The course readings are available on the online platform.

Synonyms

• Required reading: Material that must be read as part of a course.
• Prescribed text: A more formal term for material that is officially designated for study.

Related Phrases

• "To keep up with the reading (assignments)": To stay current and complete all assigned readings on schedule.
  • It's important to keep up with the reading to participate in class.
• "To fall behind on the reading (assignments)": To fail to complete readings by their due dates.
  • She missed a week of class and fell behind on the reading.

Noun

1. the reading of a passage assigned by the teacher