House points can be gained in a number of ways. The easiest is by exploring moments and collecting items. You can also earn points by successfully brewing potions, the harder the potion is the more points you'll gain. The last way is to win a wizards duel.
You receive 25 house points for brewing this correctly.
Originally you didn't earn house points for duelling, but you do now.
This is because not everybody has earned house points yet.
Yes, there is a section to practice spells and a section for duelling with other members. If you duel you can earn house points.
The house cup isn't announced on a regular schedule. There will be an update on the Pottermore Insider shortly before they tally up the next one.
In Philosopher's Stone, Hermione mentions that she heard Dumbledore was in Gryffindor. It was also confirmed in the Pottermore welcome video for students sorted into Gryffindor House.
So far with the Beta Program, potions are for gifts and to show off to your friends, house-mates, and anyone who would like to view your profile. They can also earn you house points.
Yes, when you get to the 'Sorting Hat' chapter you are sorted into a house based on the answers you give to the questions. You can then earn house points as you explore the rest of the chapters and through the activities.
Yes pottermore is fairly good the only problem is the second book isnt unlocked yet and it is quite annoying but you can duel make potions and even get put into a house and get a wand
Pottermore is British. It is in the GMT timezone.
Pottermore does not have a search engine.
All of the houses are good, the only difference is the common room you gain access to.