Chicago Public Schools (CPS) structures its curriculum to align with Illinois Learning Standards to ensure that students receive a rigorous, high-quality education from kindergarten through grade 12. These standards define what students should know and be able to do at each grade level across core subjects.
“Alignment with state standards guarantees that CPS students meet expectations consistently while preparing for state assessments and future academic challenges,” says Dr. Jessica Rivera, a Chicago-based education consultant. “It also provides clarity for parents, teachers, and administrators regarding student learning goals.”
By integrating these standards into daily lessons, assessments, and enrichment programs, CPS ensures students build the skills and knowledge required for long-term academic success.
CPS Curriculum Alignment With Illinois Learning Standards: Overview
| Subject Area | CPS Curriculum Focus | Illinois Learning Standards Alignment | Skills Developed |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language Arts (ELA) | Reading, writing, speaking, listening, vocabulary | Illinois Learning Standards for ELA | Critical reading, structured writing, comprehension, communication |
| Mathematics | Number operations, fractions, decimals, measurement, geometry, problem-solving | Illinois Learning Standards for Mathematics | Logical reasoning, fluency, problem-solving, real-world math application |
| Science | Life, physical, and Earth sciences; inquiry and experimentation | Next Generation Science Standards (adopted by Illinois) | Observation, data collection, hypothesis testing, analytical reasoning |
| Social Studies | U.S. history, civics, geography, economics, cultural understanding | Illinois Social Science Standards | Research, historical thinking, civic awareness, map skills |
| Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) | Self-management, teamwork, conflict resolution, decision-making | Integrated into Illinois SEL guidance | Emotional regulation, collaboration, responsible decision-making |
| Arts & Music | Visual arts, performance, music theory, creativity | Illinois Learning Standards for Visual & Performing Arts | Creativity, expression, cultural literacy, artistic skills |
| Physical Education (PE) | Fitness, motor skills, coordination, health awareness | Illinois PE Learning Standards | Physical health, teamwork, motor skill development |
The Role of Illinois Learning Standards
Illinois Learning Standards serve as benchmarks for academic achievement across subjects. They cover essential areas, including:
- English Language Arts (ELA)
- Mathematics
- Science (Next Generation Science Standards adopted by Illinois)
- Social Studies
- Visual and Performing Arts
- Physical Education
The standards establish clear, sequential learning expectations that help students progress from foundational concepts in early grades to more complex skills in upper grades. CPS aligns its curriculum to these standards, ensuring equitable access to high-quality education and fostering academic growth across the district.
Dr. Emily Sanders, Professor of Urban Education at DePaul University, explains, “Standards provide the structure for consistent, high-level instruction. CPS ensures that students not only meet state benchmarks but also develop critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.”
English Language Arts (ELA) Alignment
CPS ELA curriculum mirrors Illinois standards, emphasizing reading, writing, speaking, listening, and vocabulary development.
Key Focus Areas:
- Reading: Comprehension of literary and informational texts, identifying main ideas and supporting details, interpreting figurative language
- Writing: Narrative, informative/explanatory, and opinion writing using evidence
- Speaking & Listening: Collaborative discussions, presentations, and active listening
- Language Skills: Grammar, sentence structure, and vocabulary in context
By following the standards, CPS ensures students progress in literacy skills, preparing them for rigorous middle school and high school coursework.
Dr. Rivera notes, “Elementary ELA aligned with state standards develops strong reading comprehension and structured writing, both critical for academic success across all subjects.”
Mathematics Alignment
Mathematics instruction in CPS aligns with Illinois Learning Standards by emphasizing conceptual understanding, fluency, and problem-solving.
Grade-Level Focus:
- Early Grades: Number operations, addition/subtraction, basic measurement
- Upper Elementary: Multi-digit operations, fractions, decimals, geometry, measurement
- Middle School Prep: Pre-algebra, ratios, data analysis, problem-solving
Hands-on activities, visual models, and real-life problem-solving experiences help students understand and apply mathematical concepts.
Michael Thompson, senior researcher at the University of Chicago Urban Education Lab, explains, “Alignment ensures students master numeracy and reasoning skills sequentially, enabling them to handle complex concepts in middle school and beyond.”
Science Alignment
CPS science curriculum follows the Next Generation Science Standards adopted by Illinois. Instruction emphasizes inquiry, experimentation, and the scientific method.
Core Science Skills:
- Observation and classification
- Hypothesis formation and testing
- Data collection and analysis
- Application of concepts in life, physical, and Earth sciences
Students engage in hands-on labs, experiments, and project-based learning to develop problem-solving skills and critical thinking.
Dr. Sanders notes, “Inquiry-based learning ensures students learn to think like scientists, preparing them for advanced STEM topics in middle and high school.”
Social Studies Alignment
CPS social studies instruction aligns with Illinois Social Science Standards, fostering civic understanding, historical thinking, and geographic literacy.
Key Topics:
- U.S. history, state history, and local communities
- Government structures and civic responsibilities
- Economics and resource management
- Geography, maps, and cultural awareness
Students practice research, source evaluation, and analysis, developing the critical skills required for middle school social studies coursework.
Dr. Rivera explains, “Social studies alignment gives students the tools to analyze historical events and civic processes, promoting informed citizenship.”
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
SEL is integrated across CPS curricula, supporting the Illinois SEL guidance framework. Students learn:
- Self-awareness and emotional regulation
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Conflict resolution and responsible decision-making
- Goal-setting and perseverance
These competencies are essential for navigating the social challenges of larger classrooms and transitioning successfully to middle school.
Principal Linda Chen of Rogers Elementary says, “SEL integration equips students with the interpersonal skills necessary to succeed academically and socially in more complex environments.”
Arts, Music, and Physical Education
CPS aligns arts, music, and physical education with Illinois standards to promote creativity, expression, and health.
- Arts & Music: Develops visual and performing arts skills, cultural literacy, and creative problem-solving
- Physical Education: Enhances motor skills, fitness, coordination, and teamwork
These areas complement academic instruction and encourage well-rounded development.
Dr. Sanders adds, “Creative and physical skills support cognitive growth, self-expression, and overall engagement with learning.”
Benefits of Alignment
Alignment of CPS curriculum with Illinois standards ensures:
- Consistency: Students across CPS schools learn the same essential skills and knowledge
- Academic Progression: Sequential instruction builds foundational skills for middle and high school
- Assessment Readiness: Students are prepared for state assessments and benchmark evaluations
- Equity: All students, regardless of school or neighborhood, have access to high-quality instruction
Michael Thompson notes, “Standards alignment bridges gaps, allowing teachers to focus on higher-order thinking and problem-solving rather than reteaching basics.”
How Parents Can Support Learning?
Parents can reinforce learning by:
- Reviewing Standards: Familiarize with Illinois standards for your child’s grade
- Monitoring Progress: Track homework, assessments, and teacher feedback
- Engaging in Literacy and Numeracy: Read together, practice math, and discuss real-world applications
- Exploring STEM: Encourage experiments, observations, and inquiry-based learning at home
- Promoting SEL Skills: Discuss emotions, decision-making, and teamwork in daily activities
Dr. Rivera emphasizes, “Parental engagement aligned with standards improves learning outcomes and ensures students are on track academically.”
Impact & Implications
The alignment of CPS curriculum with Illinois standards has multiple benefits:
- For Students: Builds a strong foundation in core subjects and prepares them for future academic success
- For Families: Provides clarity on grade-level expectations and ways to support learning at home
- For Schools: Promotes consistent instruction and reduces gaps in student achievement
By understanding how the curriculum aligns with standards, parents can better advocate for their child and actively support learning.
Michael Thompson explains, “Families who understand alignment can reinforce learning at home and address challenges early, improving student success.”
FAQs
What are Illinois Learning Standards?
They define what students should know and be able to do in each subject and grade.
How does CPS align its curriculum with these standards?
Through structured instruction, assessments, and lesson planning across all grades and subjects.
Why is alignment important?
It ensures consistent learning, equity across schools, and readiness for future academic challenges.
How can parents use alignment to support their child?
By understanding standards, monitoring progress, reinforcing skills at home, and communicating with teachers.
Are arts, music, and SEL included in the standards?
Yes, CPS integrates these areas following Illinois standards to support holistic development.
