During the project week, several students participated in the Model UN (MUN) project. MUN is an educational simulation where students get the opportunity to step into the shoes of diplomats and simulate a United Nations conference. Participants learn about diplomacy, international relations and the workings of the UN.
The Lilienthal MUN project, which lasted a week, was a smaller version of MUN. The students had three days to prepare for the conference on Thursday. On Monday Dr. Bailey, a teacher at the Phorms School, gave an introduction on the structure and formalities of MUN. The same day, after a draw, each student received the country they were going to represent and the topic of the conference, which was orbital debris (space trash). The following days, we had time to do research on the standpoint of our country as well as write a position paper and an opening speech, helping to detect the standpoint of other countries and possible allies.
On Thursday, the day of the conference, everyone wore only their finest clothes as delegates of the UN. The conference itself was a thrilling experience, while trying to find a compromise on the topic of orbital debris, the students had the opportunity to practice public speaking by delivering their opening speech as delegates and participating in motions and moderated caucuses.
At the end of the week, the delegates that were especially engaged during the conference were honoured with the honourable mentioned award and as best delegates.
Reflecting on the week, many of the participants found the project exceedingly helpful regarding the practising of skills such as public speaking and persuasive writing. Additionally, the students could improve on debating skills and vocabulary.
We give our thanks to Dr. Pohl and Ms Oermann for organizing this project and hope that MUN will become a lasting project at our school.
Clara Mazur, 2. Semester