High School Students Compete in Model U.N. Tournament Nov. 14

High school students from around the state will gather at Baylor University on Saturday, Nov. 14, to compete in a Model United Nations Tournament. Opening and awards ceremonies will be held in Barfield Drawing Room in the Bill Daniel Student Center. Committee meetings will take place in various classrooms in the Draper Academic Building.
"This is our largest competition yet," said Dr. Linda Adams, professor of political science and director of Baylor's award-winning Model United Nation's team. "Five years ago, we had 20 students compete, and last year more than 450 students representing 50 countries participated. This year, we will have 60 countries represented. Each year, the competition grows."
The competition recreates a meeting of the United Nations. The students, representing delegations from member countries of the U.N., will debate a variety of topics such as environmental concerns, human rights and international security. Competitors must thoroughly research their chosen country and take its position.
Individual awards based on speaking ability, knowledge of the representative country and cooperation with other delegates will be given. The team with the highest number of individual awards will be selected the outstanding delegation.
"This is a fun learning experience for the participants," said Adams. "They can work on their speaking and writing abilities and their research skills and they gain self-confidence and poise. The competition is an excellent educational tool."
For more information, contact Adams at 710-6049.