1. Member obtains the right to speak (obtains the floor).
   • Member (when no one else has the floor) rises, raises hand, or stands at a microphone and awaits recognition.
2. Chair recognizes the member.
   • Chair calls member's name, points or nods to the member, or identifies microphone giving permission to speak.
3. Member makes a motion.
   • Member says "I move that...." or "I move to...." NOT "I make the motion that...." or "I so move."
4. Another member seconds the motion.
   • Recognition is not required. A member calls out "Second."
5. Chair states the motion.
   • The chair says "It is moved and seconded that...is there any discussion." (Some motions can not be discussed. Consult your parliamentary authority.)
6. The assembly discusses the motion.
   • Members wishing to speak must first obtain the floor (steps 1 and 2 above).
   • The maker of the motion may speak first, if desired; cannot speak against the motion but may vote against it.
   • Remarks must be addressed to the chair and confined to the motion being discussed. Refrain from using members names--use title or "the previous speaker" or "the speaker who..."
   • Observe time limits. Sometimes these are previously established. If not:
     • Ten minutes per speech. (if RONR* is the Parliamentary Authority)
     • No more than two speeches per member per motion on the same day.
     • No second speech if another is seeking to make a first one.
7. The chair calls for the vote.
   • When discussion has concluded the chair calls for the vote. "Are you ready to vote? The question is on the adoption of the motion that ... (repeat the motion). Those in favor say ‘Aye' (pause). Those opposed say ‘No'."
   • If discussion has been stopped by the adoption of the motion "Previous Question" (two-thirds vote), "The question is on the adoption of the motion that ... (repeat the motion). Those in favor say ‘Aye' (pause). Those opposed say ‘No'."
8. The chair announces the results of the vote.
   • "The ayes (noes) have it, the motion is adopted (lost), and ... (state the outcome-what has been decided)."

For more information, select the Members Guide to Making Motions.