Slow learner expected to take in new chapter (5)
I believe the answer is:
dunce
'slow learner' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
'expected to take in new chapter' is the wordplay.
'expected' becomes 'due' (similar in meaning).
'to take in' is an insertion indicator.
'new' becomes 'n' (common abbreviation eg NT for New Testament).
'chapter' becomes 'c' (abbreviation).
'n'+'c'='nc'
'due' enclosing 'nc' is 'DUNCE'.
(Other definitions for dunce that I've seen before include "Bad scholar, may wear a paper cap" , "Term of ridicule applied to followers of John Duns Scotus" , "School fool" , "Boy wearing cap" , "Stupid person" .)