What is MUN?
With nearly 300 students, Model United Nations is the largest extra-curricular activity at Cerritos High School. MUN is a simulation of the real United Nations. It is best demonstrated through an example.
We recently went to the NHSMUN conference in New York. Sarah and Adithi represented Japan, while schools from across the country and around the world represented close to 190 other countries. They gave speeches about their country’s position on the topic of relieving urban congestion. They talked about solutions such as using higher buildings to conserve space as was done by the Delhi Development Authority in India . All this was done after they spent time researching and preparing. Four days later, Sarah, Adithi and like minded delegates came up with a list of solutions. Finally, Adithi presented this information to over 1000 students in one of the biggest speeches of her life. For their efforts, the delegation of Japan was given an award of excellence but more importantly gave Sarah and Adithi a memory that they will never forget.
We recently went to the NHSMUN conference in New York. Sarah and Adithi represented Japan, while schools from across the country and around the world represented close to 190 other countries. They gave speeches about their country’s position on the topic of relieving urban congestion. They talked about solutions such as using higher buildings to conserve space as was done by the Delhi Development Authority in India . All this was done after they spent time researching and preparing. Four days later, Sarah, Adithi and like minded delegates came up with a list of solutions. Finally, Adithi presented this information to over 1000 students in one of the biggest speeches of her life. For their efforts, the delegation of Japan was given an award of excellence but more importantly gave Sarah and Adithi a memory that they will never forget.
What Skills can I Develop?
Research: Almost anyone can do an internet search. We try to focus not just on gathering information but looking at it critically. Looking for authentic sources is a major component of the MUN program.
Writing: After researching, students spend time writing position papers, resolutions, and topic synopsis. Students get a lot of practice in analytical writing which will help them in many of their classes.
Speaking: We give a lot of speeches. This is the area that students say they have grown the most. I have had students who are paralyzed with fear at their first speech who grow in amazing ways as speakers as they develop more confidence.
Leadership: Students have to work with people of completely different points of view. They have to collaborate and negotiate. Students in MUN develop into stronger leaders.
Writing: After researching, students spend time writing position papers, resolutions, and topic synopsis. Students get a lot of practice in analytical writing which will help them in many of their classes.
Speaking: We give a lot of speeches. This is the area that students say they have grown the most. I have had students who are paralyzed with fear at their first speech who grow in amazing ways as speakers as they develop more confidence.
Leadership: Students have to work with people of completely different points of view. They have to collaborate and negotiate. Students in MUN develop into stronger leaders.
What is is like to be part of Cerritos MUN?
What is is like to be part of Cerritos MUN?Our MUN program is a four year program. Students will take the following classes. This will cover all of the Cerritos High School Social Studies requirements. All classes are taught by Mr. Watanabe and Mr. Mustard which gives students extra support and continuity over a four year period.
Freshman Year: World History/Honors
Sophomore Year: Modern World History/Honors
Junior Year: AP United States History
Senior Year: Civics and Economics
We are a team. We spend time together. We prepare together. We compete together. We travel together. We see cities and Universities all across the United States. This team environment creates some of the best experiences and best friends that you will have in high school. You will make friends that can stay with you for the rest of your life. As we like to say, MUN is FUN.
Freshman Year: World History/Honors
Sophomore Year: Modern World History/Honors
Junior Year: AP United States History
Senior Year: Civics and Economics
We are a team. We spend time together. We prepare together. We compete together. We travel together. We see cities and Universities all across the United States. This team environment creates some of the best experiences and best friends that you will have in high school. You will make friends that can stay with you for the rest of your life. As we like to say, MUN is FUN.