The Repainting Project of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool
Introduction
The United States government has started repainting the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool as part of a larger plan to improve the appearance of Washington D.C.
Main Body
The project began because the administration was unhappy with the pool's appearance and its constant structural problems. Because the pool is built on marshland, it has suffered from sinking, which caused the filtration system to fail and algae to grow. While earlier restoration plans were estimated to cost $300 million over three years, the current administration chose a cheaper method. This involves cleaning the 1922 granite and applying a strong industrial paint called 'American Flag Blue'. Regarding the contract, a $6.9 million deal was given to Atlantic Industrial Coatings, a company based in Virginia, without a competitive bidding process. The administration used a government exception for urgent needs to avoid the usual rules. Although the executive claimed the company is an expert in pool maintenance, the firm's public record shows they mostly work on industrial roofs and pipes. Consequently, oversight groups, such as Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility, have criticized this move, asserting that ignoring legal rules shows a failure in government checks and balances. This project is part of a wider effort to change the capital's look before the 250th anniversary of the United States. Other similar projects include building a White House ballroom, creating a triumphal arch, and renaming federal institutions. The administration emphasized that these changes are necessary to improve the city's visual standards and the pool's appearance.
Conclusion
The painting process has started, but technical experts are doubtful that a surface coating can fix the pool's deep structural instability.
Learning
๐ The 'Connective Leap': Moving from Simple to Sophisticated
At the A2 level, you likely connect ideas with and, but, and because. To reach B2, you need to use Complex Transition Words. These words don't just connect sentences; they tell the reader how the ideas relate logically.
โก๏ธ The Upgrade Map
Look at how this article replaces "baby English" with "B2 English":
-
Instead of "So..." Consequently
- A2: The company does roofs, so people are angry.
- B2: The firm works on industrial roofs; consequently, oversight groups have criticized this move.
-
Instead of "But..." Although
- A2: The boss says they are experts, but the record says no.
- B2: Although the executive claimed the company is an expert... the public record shows otherwise.
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Instead of "Also..." Furthermore/Other similar projects include...
- A2: They are painting the pool. Also, they are building a ballroom.
- B2: This project is part of a wider effort... Other similar projects include building a White House ballroom.
๐ ๏ธ Pro Tip: The Logic of "Asserting"
In the text, the author uses the word asserting.
In A2, you say: "They say that..." In B2, you say: "They are asserting that..."
Why? Because "asserting" means saying something strongly and confidently. Using specific verbs for "saying" is a hallmark of B2 fluency. It shows you understand the emotion and intent behind the words, not just the basic meaning.
๐ก Quick Guide to the 'B2 Flow'
| Simple Link (A2) | Sophisticated Link (B2) | Logical Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Because | Due to / Since | Cause & Effect |
| But | However / Although | Contrast |
| And | In addition / Moreover | Adding Info |