Web Hunt: Presidents Past, Present, & Future
Take a trip to meet presidents from long ago and get a glimpse into the future as you find facts about the commander in chief.
As the leader of the executive branch of government, the President is an important part of American history.
Write your answers on a sheet of notebook paper as you move through this Web Hunt.
Presidents Past
1. George Washington: Truth and Fiction
Everyone knows the first president had wooden teeth and chopped down a cherry tree... or did he? Take a look at these popular myths and use your own words to explain the real story behind one of them.
Now that you've uncovered some myths, take a look at these truths. Record two facts about the first commander in chief.
2. Presidential Portraits
President James Polk was the first president to have his photograph taken. Before that, paintings were often the only way people knew what their president looked like and even today the official presidential portrait is an important national image.
Pick one of the first ten presidents from the list on the left side of this page and write down the name of that president.
Click on the portrait to enlarge it. What qualities or characteristics do you think the artist was trying to show in this president?
Does he look:
- Strong?
- Calm under pressure?
- Thoughtful?
Write down three words or phrases that describe this president's portrait.
Now, visit White House Kids and click on the same president's name. Write down the years he was president and two interesting facts about him or the time he lived in.
President Present
3. In the Oval Office
How many presidents have we had? And do you know who the president is today? Find the final name on this list and write it down along with the number. What number president will our next one be?
4. Cast Your Vote
In November 2008, our next president will be elected. Here's your chance to be a part of this exciting race. First, you'll need to meet the candidates. Read the short biographies of the candidates, both Democratic and Republican. Who do you think will make the best president?Now, make your vote count with the Scholastic News Online mock primary elections. Add your voice to those of thousands of other kids across the country.
Presidents Future
5. The Job of Being President
Being the president is a lot of hard work. Do you know what's involved? Read this article to learn about the seven different roles each president must fulfill. Which role do you feel you would be best at performing? Write down the role, and in one sentence describe it. Now, write one sentence explaining why you would be especially good at that part of the job.
6. Your Turn
Think you might have what it takes to be the commander in chief? Take a turn in the Oval Office as you select your cabinet, balance the budget, and defend your choices to the press. When you're done, print out a copy of the newspaper article you've created and add it to your answers.
- Teacher Store
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The Emancipation Proclamation
The Teacher Store 
The Emancipation Proclamation
Tells the story of the document which led eventually to the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment and relates the role of President Lincoln in freeing the slaves.
$5.95
Paperback Book | Grades 3-5
Grades 3-5 $5.95
- Teacher Store
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Bully for You, Teddy Roosevelt!
The Teacher Store 
Bully for You, Teddy Roosevelt!
by Jean Fritz and Mike Wimmer"This very fine biography captures the exuberance and enthusiasm of Teddy Roosevelt. An outstanding portrait. Bully for this book!" - SLJ
$4.95
Paperback Book | Grades 3-5
Grades 3-5 $4.95
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