On November 19, 30 sixth, seventh and eighth grade Charles River School (CRS) students attended the Model United Nations Middle School Conference. During this all-day gathering at Northeastern University, more than 500 middle school students worked collaboratively to tackle world problems such as malnutrition, the Syrian civil war, and climate change.
Three CRS delegations received special recognition within their committees: 8th graders Leela DuBois and Philip Spyrou won the “Best Speaker” award; 7th graders Carson Moellering and Patricia Plunkett won the “Best Negotiator” award; and 6th graders Marcel Liu and Max Heredia won the “Best Speaker” award.
“From participating in Model United Nations, I’ve learned about issues, what’s happening around the world, public speaking, and I participated in an unmoderated debate – it’s been really fun!” said 7th grader Carson Moellering.
At the conference, CRS students represented Malaysia, Uruguay and South Africa on seven different committees. In preparation, students spent the past few months researching their topics, strategizing possible solutions, and practicing their extemporaneous public speaking skills.
“Participation in Model United Nations helps students build international awareness, and develop empathy and compassion for world peoples, cultures, and problems. Students must collaborate with fellow delegates – most of whom they have never met before – to negotiate creative, yet practical, solutions. Students gain research, public speaking and geography skills, and most of all, they have a great time!” said Chris Raskin, seventh and eighth grade social studies teacher.
Model United Nations is an authentic simulation of the UN General Assembly, UN Security Council, or other multilateral body, which introduces students to the world of diplomacy, negotiation and decision making.
