Page 13 - 2019 Observations ~ The Montessori School

The research is organized into a position paper including
information about the country’s history, effects on the country, like to work with. Social skills and refined negotiation tactics
United Nations involvement, and other organization involve- are necessary for the small group discussions. Some students
ment. The students also look at the country’s policies, and al- quickly demonstrate leadership by organizing the small group
ready proposed and established solutions. Using their knowl- and leading the discussion towards a solution. It is intense and
edge and understanding, the students are challenged to remove exhilarating and the process goes on for two days!
themselves from their personal opinion and write from the per- As the students come to a place of resolution, all resolu-
spective of a citizen and representative/delegate of the assigned tions are read aloud. Every line is read and examined in the
country. document, and delegates can accept or reject lines, making sig-
Following the in-depth research and writing, the students nificant or minor adjustments to the paper, and there is a vote
write, practice, and ultimately deliver a formal speech. The to pass or not pass the resolution. In our case, a few resolutions
speech is prepared to address the committee and explain the did not pass, and that means that the topic is brought back to
country’s policy and introduce the resolution and any sub-is- the drawing table for another time.
sues. The students learn speech writing, tone, pacing, delivery To complete the experience, the students visit the General
and presentation, confidence, and other necessary important Assembly Hall at the United Nations. We are proud to say that
life skills. This is an exceptional growing and learning experi- one of our students was selected to address the entire MMUN
ence to carry with them beyond our School. Committee at the United Nations.
After months of preparation, the students attended the Montessori allows students to deeply explore subjects, to
MMUN Conference in NYC. They arrived inspired, confident, begin at a foundational level and expand exponentially. Partici-
and prepared to go off to their designated area. They immedi- pation in MMUN is a full experience of a project cycle where
ately adapt to the format of interacting. They are provided in- the students begin with planning and preparation, work indi-
structions on how to address the committee, raising their paddle vidually and collaboratively, and must master academics, public
to say, “The Delegation of Chile would like to ask a question.” speaking, and social skills. It is a unique opportunity to step
The students practice all the proper terminology and Grace and outside the School and classroom and engage in a safe but un-
Courtesy. For example, one may not use the term “honorable” familiar and unpredictable environment using their experience,
to address the Delegates but can say “distinguished delegates.” intelligence, confidence, knowledge and technique to represent
Each country has the opportunity to deliver a short speech themselves, their school and their assigned country. As Dr. Mon-
introducing their topic and providing insight into their posi- tessori is often quoted as saying, “This is Education For Life.”
tion. The representatives decide what countries they would —Lisbeth Harrison, Elementary Program Leader
A Capstone,

Real-Life Experience

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