August 17, 2025

Dear Educator, 

Are you looking for new ways to build your students’ critical thinking, persuasive speaking and writing, and collaboration skills?
 
CFR Education's classroom-ready simulations can help you do this by putting your students in the shoes of policymakers and giving them hands-on experience grappling with the challenges of addressing today's most pressing global issues.

By using simulations, students will consider complex foreign policy challenges such as:

• How should the United States respond when an American Citizen is unjustly detained? 

• Should NATO allow Ukrainian membership?

• Should the United States have take action against Germany after the Zimmerman Telegram in 1917?

With all new simulation guidelines (including a new video on how to run a simulation!), it is easier than ever for your students to build real-world skills and gain a lasting understanding of important international issues. 

Happy learning, 

Caroline Netchvolodoff 

Vice President, Education 

Council on Foreign Relations 

How to Run CFR Simulation Role-Play

Role-playing is at the heart of the Council on Foreign Relations’ simulation experience.

Watch the video below to discover flexible ways to bring simulations into your classroom and practical tips for preparing and leading effective role-plays on international issues.

Getting Started with Mini Simulations 

We've created new resources and handouts for you and your students to make integrating mini simulations into your classroom easier. 

Most mini simulations can be completed in 45–60 minutes, but as you'll see below, they can be modified to be longer or shorter, or to suit other needs. 

These instructions outline the process of running a mini simulation and include:

• A preparation handout
• A reflection handout
• Alternative options if you have time constraints, want to focus on specific skills, or are teaching online.

We've also introduced new resources that explain the different roles and goals of the various advisory groups students will be simulating:

• National Security Council instructions which apply to present day and hypothetical simulations, as well as historical simulations set in 1947 or later
• Historical U.S. Cabinet for simulations set before the National Security Council (NSC) was established by the National Security Act of 1947. 
• Generic Cabinet instructions for simulations of other countries (real or imaginary).

Getting Started with Extended Simulations

Extended simulations, which can be run for several days or weeks, come with extensive support for both educators and students. In addition to the instructions, each simulation has its own set of guidelines. 

Let's look at the simulation Cyber Clash with China as an example. 

There are two versions of each extended simulation: an educator version and student facing version. 

In the educator version you'll find things like tips for role play, flashpoints to add spice or challenge to the role-play, and assessment options. 

The student facing version has a wealth of information that will help your class fully engage in these simulations. From background information on the interagency processes of the National Security Council to case notes on the role of the United States in the issue at hand, students will have all they need to role play. 

Council on Foreign Relations. All rights reserved.

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