Homework is a regular part of learning in Chicago Public Schools (CPS), designed to reinforce classroom instruction, build study habits, and extend learning beyond the school day. While the amount and type of homework vary by grade, the core purpose remains consistent: deepen understanding, practice skills, and prepare students for future academic success.
“Homework is most effective when it supports classroom goals without overwhelming students,” says Dr. Jessica Rivera, an education consultant based in Chicago. “Families benefit when they understand what is typical and why assignments matter at each grade level.”
Across elementary and middle school, CPS teachers assign homework that aligns with grade‑level standards and individual classroom expectations. Understanding these expectations helps families support learning without unnecessary stress.
CPS Schools Homework by Grades: Overview
| Grade Level | Typical Homework Focus | Average Time | Skills Reinforced | Parent Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kindergarten | Letter recognition, basic counting, family activities | 10–20 minutes | Literacy readiness, numeracy, routines | Read with child, reinforce play‑based tasks |
| Grade 1 | Reading practice, simple math problems | 15–25 minutes | Phonics, addition/subtraction | Support reading, check work |
| Grade 2 | ELA practice, two‑digit math, short projects | 20–30 minutes | Comprehension, math fluency | Guide and discuss tasks |
| Grade 3 | Reading comprehension, math word problems | 25–35 minutes | Critical thinking, problem solving | Review directions, encourage independence |
| Grade 4 | Structured writing, multi‑step math | 30–40 minutes | Writing organization, fractions | Provide schedule and help when needed |
| Grade 5 | Longer reading, science/social studies tasks | 35–50 minutes | Research, analysis | Help plan time, monitor workload |
| Middle School | Subject‑specific assignments | 60–90 minutes | Study skills, discipline | Teach time management |
Kindergarten: Building Foundations Through Play and Practice
In kindergarten, homework is light and often takes the form of family‑oriented learning activities.
Typical Expectations:
- Read aloud with a caregiver
- Alphabet and basic letter recognition activities
- Counting objects at home
- Simple observation journals (e.g., nature walk observations)
Time Guideline: 10–20 minutes per day.
Kindergarten homework is designed to build routines and connect classroom learning with everyday life. Parents are encouraged to participate actively, reinforcing early literacy and number sense.
“Play‑based tasks at this level build positive associations with learning,” says Principal Linda Chen of a CPS elementary school. “Homework isn’t traditional worksheet work; it’s about making learning part of family life.”
Grade 1: Practice and Reinforcement
First grade expands homework to include focused reading practice and basic math.
Typical Expectations:
- Daily reading: independent or with family
- Simple math worksheets (e.g., addition/subtraction within 20)
- Sight word review
Time Guideline: 15–25 minutes per day.
Homework at this stage reinforces phonics and early numeracy skills, helping students transition from learning to read to reading to learn.
Dr. Rivera explains, “Grade 1 homework supports automaticity in reading and builds fluency in basic math facts. The goal is consistent practice without pressure.”
Parents are encouraged to read with their child nightly and check that directions are understood before the child begins tasks independently.
Grade 2: Skill Development and Short Projects
Second grade homework broadens in depth, tying reading and math practice with short written responses.
Typical Expectations:
- Reading comprehension practice
- Two‑digit addition and subtraction problems
- Short responses or journals tied to reading
- Occasional short science or social studies tasks
Time Guideline: 20–30 minutes per day.
Homework begins to challenge students to think through problems and express simple written ideas. Teachers often use homework to assess comprehension skills and identify areas needing additional support.
“Second grade is where independent practice begins to matter more,” says Dr. Rivera. “Assignments help teachers see how students apply skills learned in class.”
Grade 3: Transition to Analytical Thinking
Third grade marks a critical step where homework increasingly cultivates critical thinking ahead of middle school expectations.
Typical Expectations:
- Reading comprehension questions based on grade‑level texts
- Math word problems (e.g., multi‑step problems)
- Vocabulary practice
- Short writing assignments
Time Guideline: 25–35 minutes per day.
Homework supports deeper learning, particularly in reading comprehension and problem solving. Parents are encouraged to review instructions with their child but let students complete work independently.
“Third grade homework bridges foundational skills and analytical reasoning,” explains Dr. Emily Sanders, Professor of Urban Education. “This prepares students for more structured tasks in upper elementary grades.”
Grade 4: Structured Work and Academic Organization
Fourth grade homework expectations reflect growing student independence and organizational skill.
Typical Expectations:
- Longer writing assignments
- Multi‑step math problems (including fractions and decimals)
- Integration tasks (reading with response writing)
- Science and social studies reading
Time Guideline: 30–40 minutes per day.
Assignments become more complex, often requiring students to plan and organize their work. Teachers may begin using planners or digital platforms to help students track assignments.
Parents can help students learn time management and check that work is complete without doing tasks for them.
Grade 5: Preparing for Middle School Rigor
Fifth grade homework aims to solidify academic habits and advance skills students will rely on in middle school.
Typical Expectations:
- Extended reading with analytical questions
- Math problem sets, including decimals and volume concepts
- Research tasks in science and social studies
- Study for quizzes and tests
Time Guideline: 35–50 minutes per day.
Homework at this grade often includes longer projects and assignments that require synthesis across subjects. Students are expected to demonstrate independence while parents provide structure and support in planning.
“Fifth grade is the springboard to middle school,” says Principal Chen. “Homework helps students manage larger workloads and develop study routines.”
Middle School (Grades 6–8): Subject‑Specific Tasks
In middle school, homework becomes more specialized as students take different subjects from different teachers.
Typical Expectations:
- Daily assignments in ELA, math, science, and social studies
- Study for tests, long‑term projects, research papers
- Higher‑level critical thinking and analysis
Time Guideline: 60–90 minutes per day.
The structure mirrors secondary school demands, with teachers communicating expectations across subjects. Students learn to prioritize tasks and balance time across courses.
Parents play a vital role in teaching organization and monitoring workload without micromanaging.
Dr. Jessica Rivera emphasizes: “Homework should be purposeful and developmentally appropriate. When assignments align with classroom learning and build habits like time management and independence, students are better prepared for future challenges.”
Impact & Implications
Homework expectations in CPS have implications for students, families, and educators:
- For Students: Develops study habits, responsibility, and mastery of skills necessary for middle school success.
- For Families: Understanding expectations allows parents to support learning effectively without unnecessary stress.
- For Educators: Clear homework practices help gauge student understanding and guide instruction.
When homework is intentional and manageable, it reinforces classroom instruction and enhances student learning.
Principal Linda Chen notes: “Parents who understand grade‑level expectations can support their children without doing the work for them. The goal is to build confidence and competence.”
Why Homework Matters in CPS?
School districts, including CPS, use homework to:
- Reinforce skills taught in class
- Encourage responsibility and time management
- Provide practice for independent thinking
- Involve families in the learning process
Research on homework shows a correlation between reasonable, purposeful assignments and improved academic outcomes, especially when students and parents understand the purpose behind work. Too much or unfocused homework, however, can lead to frustration and burnout. CPS generally recommends homework amounts that reflect both developmental appropriateness and academic value.
Dr. Michael Thompson, senior researcher at a Chicago education research center, explains: “Homework should be purposeful, connected to instruction, and aligned with student capacity. When well‑designed, it builds confidence and academic resilience.”
Final Thoughts
Homework in CPS evolves from simple, play‑based tasks in early grades to complex, skill‑reinforcing assignments in later elementary and middle school. Each grade level’s expectations build on the previous year, helping students develop confidence, independence, and academic discipline.
Parents who understand what typical homework looks like at each stage are better equipped to support their children, promote positive attitudes toward learning, and identify areas needing intervention. As CPS continues refining instructional practices, homework remains a key tool for extending learning and preparing students for future academic challenges.
Dr. Emily Sanders adds: “As students progress, homework shifts from basic practice to tasks that require reasoning and communication. This evolution reflects academic growth and higher expectations in middle school.”
FAQs
How long should CPS students spend on homework?
Times vary by grade: kindergartners 10–20 minutes, elementary 20–50 minutes, middle school up to 90 minutes.
What is the purpose of homework in CPS?
Homework reinforces classroom instruction, builds habits, and promotes independent learning.
How can parents support without doing homework for their child?
Parents can provide structure, review instructions, check for completeness, and encourage discussion.
Should all homework be written work?
No. At early grades, activities include reading aloud, play‑based learning, and family tasks.
What if homework feels too difficult?
Parents should communicate with teachers to ensure assignments match grade‑level expectations and the child’s learning needs.
