House of Cards

Season 1, Episode 7 Chapter 7

Summary: Frank wins a major battle, but doesnt pause to rest on his
laurels. Peter must face his past. Stamper hushes a secret.
American Government Basics: State Government
Executive Branch
- led by the governor,
elected by the
people of the state
- Lieutenant
Governor, the
Attorney General,
and the Secretary of
State may also be in
this branch

Vocabulary:
1.
2.
3.
4.

Legislative Branch
- consider matters
brought forth by the
governor or
introduced by
members
- made up of 2
chambers: upper
(Senate) and lower
(House of

Judicial Branch
- usually led by the state
Supreme Court
- makes decisions about
cases already tried in
lower courts
- move on to US
Supreme Court if
relevant to the
Constitution

the pistons start firing: the heart starts beating

Preeminence: superiority; being better than everyone else
To spearhead: to lead something
Special election: an election to fill a seat or political position that
would not normally be empty at such a time; an election not during
election season
5. To keep under the radar: to keep private or secret; lay low
6. To stump: to be involved in a campaign; make political speeches
7. Coup: big win or success
8. To make waves: to create an impression; to make change
9. Uncouth: disgraceful or improper
10.
Ganga: marijuana; pot
11.
Smack: heroin
12.
To get under someones skin: to bother someone; to make
someone uncomfortable
13.
To vacillate: to change your mind repeatedly
14.
To throw a wrench in the works: to cause things to break
down or stop working
15.
the old stomping ground: a place where someone used to
spend a lot of time and has nostalgia for
16.
Crutch: something that supports someone; can be used
negatively
17.
Diva: someone who is dramatic and hard to work with
18.
Friction: roughness; conflict
19.
Shenanigan: an act that gets you in trouble; mischief

Name the character.

__________________________________
_________________________________
Connect the quote with the character.
1. My dad gave me a beer for
my ninth birthday.
2. I spent years being Peter's
crutch.
3. I didn't get my pen.

Comprehension Questions:
1. What does the Vice President think of Peter Russo? How do you think
he will act in later episodes?
2. Why did Zoe give Jeanine the story about Peter Russo? Do you think
they will become friends, or will there be more conflict?
3. What is the significance of Peter and Stampers talk about God? Why
does Peter tell Jeanine that he has renewed faith in God?
4. What do you think about Stamper and Rachels relationship? What do
you think Rachel wants?
5. Frank says that he, Claire, and Zoe wouldnt be the same without their
secrets. Do you think they are better off with these secrets?