It doesn't matter how much value I place on an assignment? Yes, to me, it does!

I do not understand who decides what 'matters' in this case. I see it as such: To me, a value-less assignment which takes up a disproportionate amount of time is wrong; thus, make it take less time. If it gives me no value in return, and I'm not hurting anything by cutting corners, then I most certainly will cut corners. Is there a better solution?

It's a trade-off. Cut corners, learn more on your own because you have time. Don't cut corners and be honest, learn less.