Is it like the real MUN?

I would say it’s perfect for younger students because it’s an introduction to the real MUN. You follow the same basic procedures, but some of the debates will be about fun topics like ice cream. There will also be lots of warm-ups, like the Gossip box, as well as simulations. Overall it’s great practice for the real thing.

Who is involved?

Grade 6 and 7 students are involved in the debate, they are the delegates. The chairs are from upper school – these are DP and middle school students who are more experienced and are there to lead each class. This year Simona R. and Pranav K. are head chairs. There are nine chairs working with the 6th grade and twelve chairs with the 7th grade. There is always at least one experienced chair within each group.

What is your role as chair?

Chairs are there to keep control of the group and stick to the MUN procedure. They will know when it is time to call for a resolution and be able to sense the mood of the group. This includes giving brain breaks when the students get restless. 

How do you feel about working with younger children?

I love working with them and think it’s quite entertaining to teach them. It’s really important to combine games and education. Towards the end, there are some fun ‘punishments’ for misbehaving – like doing a dance in front of the class. 

What are the topics for this year?

GRADE 7: “The gross disease we get but can’t catch”. – Non-communicable Diseases. 

GRADE 6: “Frozen Beauty” – Antarctica.

Do you think there will be any issues?

Based on past experiences, sometimes students aren’t engaged and get distracted. That’s why it’s important that the chairs are there to help them and keep them interested. They will also give students hints and help them with MUN procedures. So if you have questions, ask them!