For Students
What is Model United Nations?
Model United Nations is a simulation of the United Nations, which works to solve international disputes and problems through diplomatic resolution. Delegates develop skills that carry out into their future endeavors, as well as gain knowledge about the inner workings of diplomacy.
What are the main skills developed in MUN?
Model United Nations develops skills in leadership, public speaking, diplomacy, critical thinking, research, collaboration, problem solving and more. Especially when starting early, developing these skillsets through MUN is an excellent way to get a head start in the world.
How is MUN different from debate club?
While both involve similar structure and debates, as well as teach similar skills, MUN focuses on international diplomacy and resolution and requires delegates to represent a country’s stance on a topic. MUN emphasizes the importance of merging ideals to form a solution.
How does CVEMUN work?
Leading up to the day of the conference, each delegate will work with their teachers and our team to practice and prepare for the conference. Delegates will be assigned a country and work to develop their country’s stance on a given topic. On the day of, delegates will partake in CVEMUN; a conference designed to simulate the UN and put everything they’ve learned to use.
How should I prepare for CVEMUN?
Our team and your teacher will be working with you leading up to CVEMUN to feel prepared for the conference, and you will be supported through the various steps of this process. Main concepts covered will be research, learning rules of procedure, writing a position paper (optional but strongly recommended) and practicing writing and acting out speeches. However, independent action through this process is required to truly develop skills in MUN. You are encouraged to do your own research and preparation, and may view our Resources page for resources to help you prepare. Always feel free to reach out to the CVEMUN team or your teacher for additional support.
What is the dress code?
CVEMUN follows a similar dress code to upper-level MUN conferences around the world. Formal wear, including suits, blouses, dress shoes, etc, is preferred. However, we recognize that those standards may be difficult to meet, so we ask that you do your best but do not stress if you’re unable to meet the exact criteria. Options to find clothes for cheap include thrifting, online market places, looking in advance, borrowing from trusted adults, and more. Doing research online into proper dress code is recommended if you need further clarification. MunPrep, as well as other trusted MUN resources, offer clarification into this topic. See this article for more: MUN dress code.
Do I get to pick my country?
While in most upper-grade level MUN conferences you are able to pick your country, your team at CVEMUN works with your teachers to decide what role is best for you. This gives you the opportunity to experience MUN in a way that is not overwhelming and caters to your personal preference; before you are allowed to make your own decisions regarding countries in the future.
Does CVEMUN have double delegations?
Double delegations are where two people delegate one country in a MUN conference. Our CVEMUN team chooses to assign countries to one individual to develop skills in independence, confidence and more. However, some students who need additional support may benefit more from double delegation, and any strong requests (involving anxiety, ASD, etc.) for double delegation may be discussed with members of our team or through email at cvemun@gmail.com. Please note: the name of a delegate you would like to partner with must be given. There will not be randomly assigned delegates, and both delegates must agree to this arrangement.
What resources may I go to for more information?
Resources regarding various concepts in MUN will be given out to delegates over the course of preparation for CVEMUN. All resources given may be found on our website under the Resources page. For further information, trusted resources online include MUNPrep.
For Parents
How can MUN benefit my child?
Model United Nations gives students an opportunity to develop skills in public speaking, leadership, critical thinking, research, collaboration, diplomacy and more. CVEMUN is designed to introduce these skills at an earlier age in a supportive environment, helping your child build confidence and experience that can carry into future academics, extracurriculars, and upper-level MUN conferences.
How can I support my child?
While delegates are encouraged to take an independent role in their preparation, support from parents and guardians can be very helpful. You can support your child by encouraging them to complete their research, listening as they practice speeches, helping them understand unfamiliar concepts, and encouraging them if they feel nervous or overwhelmed. We ask that parents allow delegates to complete their own research and writing whenever possible, as independence is an important part of the MUN experience.
Can I watch my child during the conference?
Details regarding parent and guardian attendance are still being determined and will be shared closer to the conference date. We appreciate your patience as we work to create the best possible experience for delegates and their families.
For Teachers
What is expected of teachers during CVEMUN?
Teachers play an important role in helping delegates prepare for CVEMUN. Leading up to the conference, teachers will help distribute resources, provide opportunities for students to prepare, answer questions when possible, and communicate important information from our team. However, teachers are not expected to be MUN experts. Our team will provide resources and guidance throughout the process to support both teachers and delegates.
How much class time will preparation require?
The amount of class time dedicated to CVEMUN is largely up to each teacher and may depend on the needs of their students. Delegates will need time to research their assigned country and topic, learn basic MUN procedure, prepare speeches, and optionally write a position paper. Some preparation can also be completed independently outside of class. More detailed preparation timelines and resources will be provided leading up to the conference.
What resources and support will CVEMUN provide?
Our team will provide resources covering the main skills and information delegates need for the conference, including research, rules of procedure, speeches, position papers, and conference expectations. These resources will be available through teachers and on our website. Teachers and delegates are also welcome to contact the CVEMUN team with questions throughout the preparation process.
Do students need previous MUN experience?
No! CVEMUN is designed to introduce elementary students to Model United Nations, and no previous MUN experience is required. Delegates will learn the basics throughout the preparation process and will be supported by their teachers and the CVEMUN team. Students are not expected to arrive at the conference knowing everything.
How can I help students who feel nervous about public speaking?
Nervousness around public speaking is completely normal, especially for first-time delegates. Students can begin by practicing speeches individually or with a teacher before progressing to small groups or their class. Encourage students to focus on communicating their ideas rather than delivering a perfect speech. CVEMUN is intended to be a supportive learning environment where delegates can challenge themselves and gradually build confidence.
What accommodations or additional support are available for students?
We recognize that every delegate has different needs, and we want CVEMUN to be an accessible and positive experience. Students who may benefit from additional support or accommodations are encouraged to discuss their needs with their teacher and the CVEMUN team. Depending on the student and their needs, our team can work with teachers and families to determine appropriate supports, including the possibility of a double delegation.
What is expected of teachers on the day of the conference?
Specific expectations for teachers on the day of CVEMUN will be communicated closer to the conference. Teachers will receive information regarding supervision, scheduling, arrival and departure, and any other responsibilities in advance of the event.
Have More Questions?
Don’t hesitate to email us at cvemun@gmail.com or talk in person with your CVEMUN team.