Which behavior-modification technique is exemplified by exempting students from homework assignments for each book they read?

The behavior-modification technique demonstrated by exempting students from homework assignments for each book they read aligns with the concept of negative reinforcement. Negative reinforcement involves the removal of an aversive stimulus to increase the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. In this scenario, the aversive stimulus is the homework assignments, which can be perceived as undesirable or burdensome by students. By allowing students to skip these assignments in exchange for reading books, they are motivated to engage in the behavior of reading more, thereby reinforcing it.

This technique effectively encourages students to read by offering a tangible benefit—freedom from homework—as a reward for the desired behavior. The removal of the homework requirement makes the students more inclined to participate in the reading activity, illustrating how negative reinforcement can be utilized to promote positive behaviors in an educational setting.