How Do You Make A Motion?

During a formal meeting, making a motion is the only way to get your ideas recognized before the group.

At the appropriate time, raise your hand and wait to be recognized by the president. Once you are recognized by the president, you state that you would like to make a motion. Before your motion can be discussed by the group, it needs to receive a second.

Example: I would like to make a motion that we give the Debate Club $100 for their tournament.  

The president then asks if there is a second for the motion.

The  motion has been seconded by Billy. 

The president then leads a discussion on the motioned item, and calls it to question or to  a vote. 

If you are in favor of the motion raise your right hand…

All those not in favor raise your right hand…

The vote is then tabulated…

The motion carries or…

The motion does not carry.

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