What does Rachel’s argument about symbolism do for Melinda? The book?

Rachel's argument with the teacher leaves the rest of the class, including Melinda, with an enormous assignment. This supports Melinda's belief that "speaking up" accomplishes nothing.

The bell rings. Hairwoman blocks the door to give out our assignment. A five-hundred-word essay on symbolism, how to find hidden meanings in Hawthorne. The whole class yells at
Rachel/Rachelle in the hall. That's what you get for speaking up.