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The White House

EL Civics History and Government

The White House in Washington, D.C.
The White House in Washington, D.C.

The White House is the official home of the President of the United States. It is located in Washington, D.C.

The President is in charge of the executive branch of the American government.

We vote for the President in November.

Presidents are elected to four year terms, and they may serve two full terms.



The President Lives and Works in the White House
The President Lives and Works in the White House

The current President is Joe Biden. He is the 46th President of the United States, and he is a Democrat.

Presidents must be 35 years old by the time they take office, have been born in the United States, and have lived here for at least 14 years.

The President signs bills into law. If a President doesn't like a bill, he or she can veto it.

The President is also the Commander-in-Chief of the United States military.



Former President Barack Obama Taking the Oath of Office
Former President Barack Obama Taking the Oath of Office

If the President can no longer serve, the Vice-President becomes the President.

If both the President and Vice-President can no longer serve, the Speaker of the House becomes the President.

The current Vice-President is Mike Pence, and the current Speaker of the House is Paul Ryan.

The members of the Cabinet advise the President.



FUN FACTS

1. The president and his family live in the White House.

2. Most of the government buildings in Washington, D.C. are white.

3. Presidents are elected in November, but they don't take office until January of the next year.

4. George Washington was the first President of the United States. He is called the "Father of our Country."

5. The White House used to be called the "President's House" and "Executive Mansion." Newspapers started calling it the "White House" so in 1901 President Theodore Roosevelt made the name "White House" the official name of the president's home and office.



Civics Quiz Questions

1. What is the name of the President's home?

2. Who advises the President?

3. How many full terms can Presidents serve?

4. How old must they be when they take office?

5. Who takes office if the President can no longer serve?



Civics and Government Lesson Activities

Washington, D.C. Crossword Puzzle   Answer Key

Washington, D.C. Quiz

U.S. Government Bingo

U.S. Capital Photo Story (music)

U.S. Presidents - Flash Cards

U.S. Vice Presidents - Flash Cards

U.S. Presidents Years in Office - Flash Cards

White House Handwriting Worksheet