Welcome to the first-ever Model UN program for middle school students! 2010 is the first year that this program is introduced in Monterey County.
What is Model United Nations?
Model U.N. is an exciting program where students take on the role of diplomats and learn about current history and how governments work. Following months of preparatory work, students from various schools come together to participate in a one or two-day conference that is a simulation of the United Nations General Assembly, Security Council and other multinational committees. Each year, over 500,000 students participate in various Model UN related conferences worldwide!
Why Is It Important?
- Promotes understanding of geography, social studies, history: Model UN is a fun and interactive way to learn beyond the traditional textbook environment. Through role-playing, students are able to bring current international events to life and gain a better understanding of the world problems.
- Real world applicability: Students are placed in decision-making roles, become subject experts in the country that they select and engage in problem solving.
Benefits to Students?
- Understanding of current world crisis and issues.
- Public speaking, communications and interpersonal skills.
- Negotiations—students, as diplomats, must work collectively to negotiate solutions to world problems.
- Team-building / networking—students work collaboratively to develop and pass resolutions.
- Research and writing—students must research and write country position papers.
Who Participates?
2010: The Lyceum Monterey County Model UN program is for 5th-8th graders.
2011: Two separate programs—one for 5th-8th graders and another for high school students.
How Does This Work?
Model UN can take place in three ways:
- As part of the social studies curriculum (e.g. history, government classes); or
- As a Model UN club; or
- As an after-school enrichment class or program (conducted by the Lyceum). Students undergo a rigorous 8-week program that prepares them for the Model UN conference.
Regardless of whatever format the Model UN program will take place—either as a club or class or an after school program—a teacher(s) will be designated as an advisor(s) to students.
The Lyceum will provide advisory and other related assistance. Please contact the Lyceum for further information (831) 372-6098.
Why Have a Model UN Program in Monterey County?
Jumpstarting a Model UN program/conference has been a goal of Ms. Wanda Pan-Christiansen, Lyceum Executive Director, since taking leadership of the Lyceum in 2008. She was a participant in Model UN as a college student and understood the benefits the program brings. Previously, Monterey County students must travel to UC Berkeley or Stanford just to watch or participate in the conference. Now, students will have an opportunity to participate in this exciting and interactive program in Monterey County.
