Introduction

 The U.S. Presidents are men with interesting backgrounds, leadership qualities, and memorable moments.  They began their lives as children with questions, ideas, and dreams to change the world.  Each U.S. President has signficantly influenced United States history.  Come and meet these courageous men face-to-face and explore elections, trivia, historical documents, video, take virtual trips, and read their biographies! 

Purpose of this Pathfinder

 The purpose of this pathfinder is create a beginning point for students who are interested in finding out more about the U.S. Presidents.  The 5th Grade Social Studies academic standards focus on the War of Independence and the key roles of U.S. Presidents such as Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and George Washington.  5th Graders begin to understand the importance of the United States Constitution of 1787 and how it created unity among the original thirteen states.  As a result, there is value in recognizing the Presidents such as George Washington and James Madison who developed the Constitution. 

U.S. Presidents connect students with the people and the processes within the United States government.  5th Graders learn about the primary and general election process for local, state, and national offices.  They also become familiar with the three branches of government.

Electronic materials are included in this pathfinder as a way for students to quickly connect with various resources.  This contained list makes locating information easier.  The intent is that through great websites, references, books, multimedia, and creative software tools, that researching and designing projects about U.S. Presidents will be a life-learning experience.  Also, as students take virtual tours of some of the President's homes, view photos, and read important documents, that stepping inside the life of a President will make history seem real! 

 Presidential Fun Facts