SUMMARY
The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is set to undergo more repairs, just days ahead of America’s 250th anniversary. That’s according to Trump, who has repeatedly claimed without evidence that vandals caused the algae blooms and peeling paint that have plagued the pool since its renovation.
View the transcript of the story.
NOTE: If you are short on time, watch the video and complete this See, Think, Wonder activity: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What would you want to learn more about? You can also make a Google doc copy of these general discussion questions.
News alternative: Check our recent segments from the News Hour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching and see the Google doc above for discussion questions.
WARM-UP QUESTIONS
- What problems developed at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool after its renovation?
- When are the new repairs to the Reflecting Pool expected to begin?
- Where is the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool located?
- Why has the Reflecting Pool become a source of political controversy?
- How much money has been spent on the renovation project?
ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS
- What information would you need to evaluate the competing claims presented in the report?
- Why might taxpayers be concerned about the cost and management of public projects?
Media literacy: The video includes statements from government officials, legal experts and technical experts. Which sources do you find most credible for determining the cause of the damage, and why? What additional evidence would you want to see before reaching a conclusion?
WHAT STUDENTS CAN DO
Imagine you are a reporter covering this story. Write at least two interview questions for the following individuals:
- A government official
- A construction expert
- A taxpayer or visitor to the memorial
In groups, compare questions and discuss how each person's perspective could help the public better understand the issue.
Written by Jackalyn Karamanougian, PBS News Hour Classroom's intern, and News Hour's Victoria Pasquantonio
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