EMBLEM, COLORS, PLEDGE, AND MOTTOThe four-leaf clover is the official 4-H emblem. The four H's stand for head, heart,

hands, and health.

4-H colors are: Green—life, springtime, youth White—fresh, clean

The 4-H pledge is: I PLEDGE My Head to clearer thinking, My Heart to greater loyalty, My Hands to larger service, My Health to better living, For my club, my community, my country, and my world.

You should learn the pledge. You should also try to follow it in 4-H and in your daily life.

The 4-H motto is: “Make the Best Better”

Learn it and set your goals with the motto in mind. It means to always try to do a thing better, to constantly improve.

WELCOMETO 4-H:NEW MEMBER'S INFORMATION

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4-H kids and leaders live: all over Washington, in all 50 United States, and in 82 other countries.

Over 6.5 million members and nearly 450,000 leaders are involved in 4-H nationwide! It is open to everyone without discrimination.

WSU EXTENSION 4-H YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

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HOW DID 4-H BEGIN?4-H began in the early 1900s. The first groups were called Boys and

Girls Clubs. Then in 1914, Congress passed an act that established Coop-erative Extension and 4-H.

Cooperative Extension is part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It is also part of Washington State University. Through Extension, WSU reaches out to your community.

WHO BRINGS 4-H TO YOU?Extension educators are hired by WSU to work with 4-H. They organize

4-H in the county and community.4-H leaders help 4-H’ers learn and have fun. Leaders, since they are

volunteers, do not get paid. They help because they want boys and girls to learn new things. They want you to grow up to be a happy, caring person.

Friends of 4-H also help. These “friends” are organizations, industries, and businesses. They offer awards for outstanding 4-H work.

4-H MEMBERSHIP AND PROGRAMSA person who is 5 years old and in kindergarten

may join 4-H and be a member through the 12th grade. To join, contact a local 4-H leader; the county extension educator; or Washington State University Extension, Pullman, WA 99164-4852. 4-H has special programs and activities for the following age groups. Which one are you in?

• Primary: K–2nd grades • Junior: 3rd–5th grades • Intermediate: 6th–8th grades • Senior: 9th–12th grades

Kinds of 4-H programs available are:• 4-H Clubs. Clubs have a planned program and meet regularly. They may offer one project or many projects. Club activities

can include demonstrations, project work, community service, and social events.

• Special Interest Groups. A group of kids meet to participate in a special learning activity organized or taught by extension personnel. This experience is not part of the school curriculum.

• School Enrichment. A learning experience presented or coordinated by extension personnel with school officials as part of your school class-room activities.

• 4-H After School. A group of kids who participate in learning activities during nonschool hours.

TO MAKE THE BEST BETTER

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WHO HELPS IN 4-H?4-H is really a family program. Your parents and family are important

in 4-H. They help you with project work and other activities.4-H members are also helped by volunteer leaders. Every 4-H club needs

one or more adult leaders. These leaders teach boys and girls, organize the club, help officers and help at meetings, and tell parents about 4-H.

There are different kinds of 4-H leaders:• Club Leader. Works with general club meetings.• Project Leader. Helps members on their projects.• Activity Leader. Leads one or more activities,

such as music, recreation, demonstrations, special events.

• Teen Leader. Works with an adult to give leader-ship to activities, events, or projects.The extension educator and staff helps 4-H club

leaders. The extension educator plans the county program, helps leaders organize clubs and special 4-H groups, recommends project material, coordinates county events, and trains 4-H leaders.

State 4-H specialists work at WSU. They help train 4-H educators, staff, and leaders, develop new programs and projects, and make the existing ones better.

WHAT DO YOU DO IN 4-H?In 4-H you “learn by doing.” You learn useful skills, how to get along

with people, and how to help your community and country by practicing these skills.

Here are some activities you can take part in:

Project Work. This helps you gain knowledge and skills and learn to take responsibility. As a 4-H member, choose at least one project. Choose projects that fit into your family, community, and the way you live. Share your projects with your parents. Take only one or two projects the first year. Sometimes members plan more than they can get done and become discouraged.

4-H Projects and Publications, EM2778, is a catalog of project informa-tion, available from your county extension office. You can choose projects in the following programs:• Animal Sciences. Dairy, Livestock, Equine, Small Animals, and Veterinary Science.• Engineering and Technology. Aerospace, Bicycle, Computer, Small Engines, and Wood Science.• Environmental Stewardship. Environmental Stewardship, including Discovery, Forestry, Sportfishing, and Shooting Sports. • Expressive Arts. Applied Arts, Photography, and Performing Arts. • Family and Consumer Sciences. Family Living, Clothing, Foods and Nutrition, and Consumer Education.

4-H STORY

Record Books

SCHOLARSHIPSPARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE

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• Interdisciplinary. Challenge, and SERIES Science Experiences, and Ag in the Classroom.

• Plant Sciences. Plant Science, Garden, and Entomology. • Social Sciences. Citizenship, International and Cross-cultural, Health,

Character Education, and Leadership.

Demonstrations. 4-H members show and tell others how to do things. This is your first step toward helping others and becoming some-one who can lead others.

Record Keeping. You will write a record and story of what you do for each project. Keeping records helps you keep track of what you are learning and helps you develop business sense. Completed records must be signed by your parents and leader at the end of the 4-H year.

Recreation. You will enjoy life, yourself, and your friendships with others in social activities.

Club Projects. The entire club can take a project. In community service projects, 4-H’ers do things to improve their neighborhood. 4-H clubs often choose community projects in conservation, beautification, safety, or health.

County Contests. 4-H members who enter contests are judged and receive ribbons; they learn how to improve their presentations.

Exhibits. You may exhibit your project results at club meetings, local fairs, or the State 4-H

Fair. This shows others what you have learned in 4-H, helps you find out how to improve your work, and gives you a sense of pride and accomplishment.

4-H Camp. Many 4-H members attend camp. They take part in educational and recreation-al experiences as they learn about nature and living with people.

Know Your Government. 4-H’ers (grades 9–12) focus on government procedures and issues at citizenship project meetings held in their counties. The project culminates in a statewide conference at Olympia, where members apply what they have learned and meet their legislators.

4-H State and County Exchanges. Exchanges can be ar-ranged with clubs from different counties, with city and farm members, or with clubs in other states. Exchanges give you a broader knowledge of people and living situations and the chance to create lasting friendships.

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State 4-H Teen Events. Statewide leadership events are planned annually for members in grades 8–12. After attending, teens are better equipped to help with 4-H and do other things in their communities.

Regional and National 4-H Teen Events. 4-H members are selected annually to represent Washington at regional or national events. Such events showcase outstanding member achievement and provide an opportunity for delegates to share their experiences with oth-ers and help improve 4-H.

International 4-H Exchange. In the International 4-H Youth Exchange (IFYE) program, older 4-H members live and work with families in other countries. This program also allows local families to host IFYE youth from other lands. The 4-H Japanese Exchange is a summer ex-change for youth, 14–19 years of age, to travel to Japan or host Japanese youth. You can learn more about 4-H opportunities online at 4h.wsu.edu.

CLUB MEETINGSIn 4-H there are two kinds of meetings:

Club Meetings. Members plan and carry out what they want to do as a group. A good club meeting has four parts with definite activities in each part.• Opening. Call to Order, "Pledge of Allegiance," 4-H Club Pledge. • Business. Roll Call, Secretary’s Report, Treasurer’s Report, Committee

Reports, Old Business, New Business. • Education. Program, demonstrations, talks, videos, speaker. • Fun. Recreation, group singing, skits, entertainment, refreshments.

Project Meetings. Members get together to work on their projects.

WHAT DO OFFICERS DO?4-H club officers are elected by members. They are proud of their jobs and do their best to get things done right and on time. Each officer has specific jobs:

• President. The president leads the club meetings and keeps them orderly.

• Vice President. The vice president leads in the president’s absence, introduces guests, is the program chair, and takes care of the club’s property.

• Secretary. The secretary writes down what happens at the meeting, keeps attendance records, brings the secretary’s book to all meetings, and takes responsibility for letters and other correspondence.

VicePresident

Secretary

President

Treasurer

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• Treasurer. The treasurer takes care of club money, pays bills, keeps an accurate account of the club’s finances, and reports at each club meeting.

• Reporter. The reporter sends news stories to local newspapers and radio stations and plans publicity for events.

• Recreation Leader. The recreation leader leads games, fun activities, and singing with enthusiasm.

• Committee Chairs. Your club may have several committees, depend-ing on the club size and what you want to do. Committees may

include: program, membership, recreation, community service, publicity, social events, and safety.

WHAT DO ALL MEMBERS DO?An active club member volunteers for jobs without being coaxed. You

attend all meetings and activities if possible.You make suggestions and present ideas. If you want the club to vote

on something, you make a motion. Every member should know how to make a motion:

The member raises his or her hand, or stands, and waits to be recog-nized. When the president calls on the member, he or she says, “I move that . . . .” Another member says, “I second the motion.” If no one sec-onds it, the motion is dropped. The president asks for discussion. When discussion stops, the president asks members, “Are you ready for the question?” If no one wants more discussion, the club is ready to vote. The president states the motion so everyone can hear it and calls for a vote. The president states “The motion is carried,” or “The motion is lost,” according to the vote.

4-H REWARDS FOR A JOB DONE WELLThe greatest and most lasting rewards a 4-H member can receive are:

• Satisfaction from a job well done. • Pride in his or her accomplishments. • Recognition from leaders, parents, and other 4-H members for accomplishments. • Knowledge and skill gained through the project.

Other forms of recognition are: • Completion certificates and achievement pins for members who finish a project and complete their project record. • County award medals to members showing outstanding accomplishment in a project. • Scholarships to 4-H camp, state events, and national events. • Ribbons for contest entries and exhibits. • Premium money for ribbons earned in 4-H contests and exhibits at fairs.

4-H awards recognize improvement in knowledge, skills, and participation to “Make the Best Better.”

GREATJOB!

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WORKSHEET1. What do the four H's on the 4-H emblem stand for?

2. What are the 4-H colors?

3. Learn the 4-H Pledge. Say it to your leader and lead the pledge in a club meeting.

4. What is the 4-H Motto?

5. What two organizations sponsor Cooperative Extension?

6. Why do 4-H leaders volunteer to help 4-H members?

7. How do “Friends of 4-H” help the 4-H program?

8. Name three kinds of people who help 4-H’ers

9. What does the 4-H saying “Learn by Doing” mean?

10. How does project work help 4-H members?

11. What is a demonstration?

12. What is the value of keeping records?

13. Why is recreation a part of 4-H club work?

14. How does a 4-H exhibit help a member?

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15. Match these meeting activities with the part of a club meeting in which they belong.

Roll call

Committee reports

Group singing

Business—old and new

Skit

Secretary and Treasurer reports

Refreshments

"Pledge of Allegience"

Video

16. Tell which club officer is usually responsible for the following jobs:

Pays club’s bills.

Teaches and leads songs.

Writes down what happens at the meeting.

Sends news stories to local newspapers and radio stations.

Is in charge of the club meeting.

Leads games during the fun part of meeting.

Mails all correspondence.

Introduces guests.

Keeps accurate account of club’s finances.

Takes care of club property.

Keeps attendance records.

Acts as program chair.

Approved: Parent

Leader

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A. OpeningB. BusinessC. EducationD. Fun

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You may order copies of this and other publications from WSU Extension Publishing and Printing at 1-800-723-1763 or http://pubs.wsu.edu.

Issued by Washington State University Extension and the U.S. Department of Agriculture in furtherance of the Acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914. WSU Extension programs and policies are consistent with federal and state laws and regulations on nondiscrimination regarding race, sex, religion, age, color, creed, national or ethnic origin; physi-cal, mental or sensory disability; marital status, sexual orientation; and status as a Vietnam-era or disabled veteran. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local WSU Extension office. Trade names have been used to simplify information; no endorsement is intended. Revised August 2007. Subject code 839.

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More boys and girls belong to 4-H than any other youth group.

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2014-2015 Washington 4-H Project List

Animal Sciences Amphibians Beef* Cat Cavy Dairy Cattle* Dog Dog Care & Training Service Dog Equine Equine Science* Horseless Horse Horsemanship* Explore the World of Small Animals Goat Dairy Goat* Meat Goat* Novelty Goat* Pygmy Goat Utility Goat* Llama* Pets Poultry Rabbit Sheep* Swine* Veterinary Science Self-Det. Animal Science Engineering & Technology Aerospace Bicycle Computer Electricity Geospatial Robotics Small Engines Woodworking Self-Det. Engineering & Technology Environmental Stewardship Environmental Stewardship Backyards & Beyond Exploring Your Environment Forestry Sportfishing There’s  No  New  Water Wind Energy

Shooting Sports Archery* Black Powder/Muzzle Loading* Hunting* Pistol* Riflery* Shotgun* Self-Det. Environ. Stewardship Expressive Arts Communications Performing Arts Performing Arts Theatre Arts Photography Visual Arts Creative Arts Latino Cultural Arts Visual Arts Self-Det. Expressive Arts Family & Consumer Sciences Clothing & Textiles Consumer Education Consumer Savvy Financial Champions Reading/Financial Literacy Family Living Adventures in Family Living Kids on the Grow! Foods & Nutrition Foods & Cultures Food & Nutrition Food Preservation* Microwave Magic Native Foods STEPS to a Healthy Teen What’s  on  Your  Plate? EFNEP Youth Project Food $ense Needle Arts Self-Det. Family & Consumer Science Interdisciplinary Adventure Education Challenge Portable Challenge Outdoor Adventures

Ag in the Classroom Build Your Future Plant Sciences Entomology Butterfly WINGS Entomology Garden Garden MG-Led Gardening Plant Science Self-Det. Plant Science Social Sciences …And  My  World Citizenship Citizenship Know Your Government Service Learning Entrepreneurship Health Health Health Rocks Introduction to 4-H Exploring 4-H Just Outside the Door Leadership Self-Det. Social Science *Youth must be in 3rd Grade and be age 8 before 1/1/15 to enroll in these projects

PRIMARY 4-H PROJECTS

2014-2015

Did you know that 4-H has projects for children in grades K-2? To start, the youth must be age 5 by January 1 of the current 4-H year. When the youth is age 8 and in the third grade, he/she may enroll in any of the other projects offered. Many times there are more youth wanting to join 4-H, but cannot because of a lack of adult leaders. For more information about 4-H Leadership – call 397-6060 ext. 5710. Aerospace: Pre-Flight (HCA): Learn by doing and share what happened by building an edible rocket, comparing birds to airplanes, identifying aerospace careers and creating a space helmet. Animal Science Projects: Dogs (GBEA), Cats (GBD), Rabbits (GBIA), Poultry (GBC), Cavy (GBIB), Pygmy Goats (GBGC) and Horseless Horse (GHBG) Clothing & Textiles (CB): Learn basic sewing skills and how to care for clothing; gain self-confidence, practice physical skills and learn how to follow directions. Creative Arts (BCA): Express creativity, art as a leisure activity, select appropriate materials for projects Discovery (DA): Encourages exploration and appreciation of the natural environment. Entrepreneurship – Be the E (FCB): Practice skills needed to function successfully as an entrepreneur; explore types of businesses Exploring 4-H (FD): Discover the opportunities in 4-H. Explore personal interests through project areas. Exploring Animal Science:(GBK)-Explore the World of Small Animals and (GBO)-Exploring Farm Animals- develop and appreciation for and understanding of animal well-being. Pets (GBKA): Better understanding of animal care and health . (Regular 4-H animal projects begin when youth are age 8 and in third grade). Just Outside the Door (FHB): Children increase observational skills as they learn more about water, plants, themselves, other people, insects and appropriate clothing for being outside. Latino Cultural Arts (ACA): Discover the Latino culture through hands-on activities Leadership (FFA): practice communication skills, develop self understanding, working with groups, develop management skills, learn decision making skills, and develop interpersonal skills Lego Robotics – County Program (HCF) : Learning through fun activities about science and technologhy. Photography- (BCD): Learns how to care and use a camera and apply basic principles of good design. Performing Arts (BB): Experience singing, musical instruments, acting, wear costumes and make puppets while communicating, expressing self, making decisions and problem solving. SeeThem Sprout (Plant Science GCC): Plan, prepare, and care for a garden. Snackin’  Healthy  (ECD): Goals are to provide fun while learning about different types of foods and their nutrients, maintaining good health plus easy food preparation and food safety.

W

ASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY

EXTENSION

ParliamentaryProcedureMade Easier

WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY

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FOREWARD

This booklet is designed to ease the burden of interpreting and reinterpreting the intricacies of parliamentary procedures. It is not meant to bedefinitive or complete, but it should answer most of the questions raised on parliamentary procedures.

Parliamentary procedure provides a basic guide to fair and orderly procedure in meetings. It is the best method yet devised to enable assem-blies of any size, with due regard for every member’s opinion, to arrive at the general will on a maximum number of questions of varyingcomplexity in a minimum time and under all kinds of internal climate, ranging from total harmony to hardened or impassioned division ofopinion. While parliamentary procedures themselves can be justified on the basis of effectiveness and uniformity, they also contribute tomeeting procedure. There is little, if any, reason for one person to attempt to learn every rule and its related details. To know where to find theanswers is enough.

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The “Why” of Parliamentary Law

Parliamentary law is simple in principle. It is based largely on merecommon sense and courtesy. It seems technical because it has beennecessary to develop a special vocabulary for discussing it. If oneknows the vocabulary, the rules come easily. For this reason, aglossary of common terms has been included in the back of thebooklet and should be referred to as often as necessary.

The Purpose of Parliamentary Law:

★ To enable an assembly to transact business with speed andefficiency.

★ To protect the rights of each individual.

★ To preserve a spirit of harmony within the group.

To achieve these purposes, always consider the five basic principlesof parliamentary procedure:

★ Only one subject may claim the attention of the assembly at onetime.

★ Each proposition presented for consideration is entitled to fulland free debate.

★ Every member has rights equal to every other member.

★ The will of the majority must be carried out, and the rights of theminority must be preserved.

★ The personality and desires of each member should be mergedinto the larger unit of the organization.

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The Agenda or Order of Business

It is customary for every group to adopt a standard order of busi-ness for meetings. When no rule has been adopted, the following isthe order:

1. Call to order:“Will the meeting please come to order.”

2. Reading and approval of minutes:“Are there any corrections to the minutes?”“There being no corrections, the minutes will stand approved asread.”or:“Are there any further corrections to the minutes?”“There being no further corrections, the minutes will standapproved as corrected.”

3. Reports of officers and standing committees:Officers, boards, or standing committees should be called uponto report in the order in which they are mentioned in the consti-tution or by-laws of the organization.

4. Reports of special committees

5. Unfinished business:“We come now to unfinished business. Is there any unfinishedbusiness to come before the meeting?”

6. New Business:“Is there any new business to come before the meeting?”

7. Program

8. Adjournment:Unqualified Form: Proposer moves for adjournment; motion isseconded; chair calls for a vote; action depends on majority vote.This motion cannot be discussed.Qualified Form: Proposer moves for adjournment within adefinite time or adjournment to meet again at a specified time;motion is seconded; chair calls for a discussion; a vote is taken;action depends on majority vote.

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What is a Motion?

A motion is a proposal that the group take a certain action.

How are Motions Classified?

1. Main Motions: Motions of this group have for theirobject the bringing of the questions, or propositions,before the assembly for consideration. Only one mainmotion can be considered at a given time by the as-sembly, and such a motion, when introduced, excludesall other main motions until it has been disposed of.

2. Subsidiary Motions: Motions of this group have for their objectthe modification or disposition of the main motion that is beingconsidered. Their existence as motions depends entirely uponthe principle motion to which they are subordinate. Since theyrelate to the question before the house, it is “in order” to proposethem when a main motion is still before the assembly and to voteupon them before voting upon the main motion.

3. Privileged Motions: Motions of this group have no connectionwhatsoever with the main motion before the assembly, but aremotions of such importance that they are entitled to immediateconsideration. These motions have the privilege of setting asidetemporarily the main business before the house.

4. Incidental Motions: Motions of this group have few generalcharacteristics in common, but for convenience have been groupedinto one class. The name “incidental” has been chosen becausethey arise only incidentally out of the business of the assembly.

(See pages 12 and 13 for a Chart of Precedence of Motions and aSummary of Rules governing them.)

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How Should a Motion Progress?

1. A member rises and addresses the presiding officer.The presiding officer should be addressed by the appropriatetitle, i.e., “Mr. President.” If the specific title is not known, it isalways correct to use the term “Mr. (or Madame) Chairman (orChairperson).”

2. The member is recognized by the presiding officer.The chair recognizes a member by his name, by a nod, or othermeans of recognition. Having thus received formal recognitionfrom the chair, a member is said to “have the floor” and is theonly member entitled to present or discuss a motion.

3. The member proposes a motion.A motion is always introduced in the form, “I move that”followed by a statement of the proposal. This is the onlycorrect phraseology. Aside from very brief explanatory re-marks, it is not permissible to discuss the merits of a motioneither prior to or immediately following the formal proposal ofthe motion. All discussion must wait until after the chair hasstated the motion to the assembly and has called for discussion.

4. Another member seconds the motion.Another member, without raising or addressing the chair, maysay, “I second the motion.” Seconding the motion is merely anindication that the member seconding it wishes the matter tocome before the assembly for consideration. If no one secondsthe motion, the chair may ask, “Is there a second to the mo-tion?” If there is none, the chair may declare, “The motion islost for want of a second.”

5. The presiding officer states the motion to the assembly.When a motion has been properly proposed and seconded, thepresiding officer repeats the motion to the assembly, or “states themotion.” After it has been formally stated to the assembly, it maybe spoken of as a “question,” a “proposition” or a “measure.”

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6. The assembly discusses or debates the motion.After the motion has been formally stated, any member has aright to discuss it. The floor must be obtained in the samemanner as when presenting a motion. Normally, the firstperson who asks recognition is entitled to speak, but whenseveral members wish to speak or present motions at the sametime, certain guiding principles should determine the decisionof the chair:

• The chair should always show preference to the proposer ofthe motion.

• A member who has not spoken has prior claim over one whohas already discussed the question, or who has proposedanother motion.

• If the chair knows the opinions of the various membersregarding the measure before the house, he should alternatebetween those favoring the measure and those opposing it.

• The chair should recognize a member who seldom speaks inpreference to one who frequently claims the attention of theassembly.

Discussion must be confined to the question that is “beforethe house.”

7. The presiding officer takes the vote on the motion.When all members who desire to discuss the question have doneso, the motion is “put to a vote.” It is permissible, before takingthe vote, to inquire, “Is there any further discussion?” or “Areyou ready for the question?” If no one rises, it is presumeddiscussion is closed. The presiding officer will proceed to takethe vote by announcing, “All in favor of the motion (state themotion) say ‘Aye.’” Following response from the assembly is thestatement, “Those opposed say ‘No.’” If it is not possible to

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determine from the volume of voices which way the majority hasvoted, the response is: “The chair is in doubt. Those in favor ofthe motion please rise.” After counting: “Be seated. Thoseopposed, rise. Be seated.” Another alternative is to simply callfor a show of hands. Certain motions may be voted on by ballot.

8. The presiding officer announces the result of the vote.The chair then formally announces the result of the vote, saying:“The motion is carried; therefore (state the intent of the motion).”If a majority voted in the negative, “The motion is lost.” As soonas the vote has been announced, another motion is in order.

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How May a Motion be Amended?

The purpose of the motion to amend is to modify a motion that hasalready been presented in such a manner that it will be moresatisfactory to the members.

Methods of Amending:

★ By addition or insertion: To add something to the motion that itdid not contain.

★ By elimination or by striking out: To subtract or eliminatesomething from a motion that was originally part of it.

★ By substitution: This method is a combination of the first twomethods, since in amending by substitution something isstricken out and something is inserted in its place. The substi-tuted portion may consist of a word, a phrase, a clause, or anentirely new motion.

The most important principle to understand in connection with anyform of the motion to amend is that an amendment “may be hostile,but it must be germane.”

“Hostile” means it is opposed to the spirit and aim of the motion towhich it is applied.

“Germane” means it has direct bearing upon the subject matter ofthe motion; that is, it is relevant, or relates to it.

An amendment may be opposed to the actual intent of the originalmotion and, in fact, nullify it, but if it relates to the same subjectmatter, it is germane.

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How to Handle Amendments

Amendment of the First Rank: An amendment to a motion.

1. Amendment of the Second Rank: An amendment to the amend-ment. (The amendment to the amendment must modify andrelate directly to the amendment and not to the main motion,otherwise it is out of order.)

2. No amendment beyond that of second rank is possible.It is never in order to propose more than one amendment ofeach rank at one time. If one desires to amend two separateand unrelated parts of a motion, this must be done by twoamendments of the first rank, and one must be voted uponbefore the other is proposed. It is possible, however, to have amotion, one amendment to the motion (amendment of the firstrank), and one amendment to the amendment (amendment ofthe second rank) before the assembly at one time. Until theamendment of the second rank has been voted upon, no otheramendment of the first rank can be proposed.

3. Order of voting:Amendments are voted upon in inverse order; that is, the oneof second rank is disposed of first.

★ Discussion is held and the vote taken upon the amend-ment to the amendment (amendment of the second rank).

★ Discussion is called for and the vote is taken upon theamendment to the motion (amendment of the first rank).

★ When the vote on this has been taken, discussion uponthe original or main motion as amended is opened and,when completed, a vote is taken upon it.

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Chart of Precedence of Motions and Summary of Rules Governing Them

May InterruptA Speaker

NoNoNoYesYes

NoNoNoNoNoNoNo

No

NoYes

Yes

NoNoNoNoNoNo

NoNoNoYesYesYesYesYesNo

RequiresA Second

YesYesYesNoNo

YesYesYesYesYesYesYes

Yes

YesYes

Yes

YesYesYesYesYesYes

YesNoYesNoNoNoYesNoYes

Debatable

LimitedNoLimitedNoNo

NoNoLimitedLimitedLimitedYesYes

Yes

NoYes

No

YesYesYesLimitedYesYes

NoNoNoNoNoNoLimitedNoNo

VoteRequired

MajorityMajorityMajorityChair rulesNone

Majority2/32/3MajorityMajorityMajorityMajority

Majority

MajorityMajority

None until called for

2/32/3MajorityMajorityGen, Majority; Spec. 2/32/3

2/3MajorityMajority2/3Chair rules or MajorityNoneMajorityMajorityMajority

Motions ThatMay Apply

Amend, ReconsiderNoneAmendAllNone

NoneReconsiderAmend, ReconsiderAmend, Recon., Prev. Ques.Amend, Recon., Prev. Ques.Amend, Recon., Prev. Ques.Limit Deb., Prev. Ques., Recon.

All

NoneLim. Deb., Prev. Ques., Table,Postpone definitelyNone

AllAllAllAllAllAll

NoneReconsiderReconsiderReconsiderNoneNoneAll except amendNoneAmend

Privileged Motions• To fix time at which to adjourn• To adjourn (unqualified)• To take a recess• To rise to a question of privilege• To call for the orders of the day

Subsidiary Motions• To lay on the table• To call for the previous question• To limit, or extend limits, of debate• To postpone definitely• To refer to a committee• To amend• To postpone indefinitely

Main Motions• General main motions• Specific main motions

– To take from the table– To reconsider

– To reconsider and have enteredon the minutes

– To rescind– To expunge– To adopt a resolution– To adjourn (qualified)– To create orders of the day (Special)– To amend (constitution, etc)

Incidental MotionsTo suspend rulesTo withdraw a motionTo read papersTo object to a considerationTo rise to a point of orderTo rise to parliamentary inquiryTo appeal from the decision of the ChairTo call for a division of the houseTo call for a division of a question

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• If no one is elected on the second ballot, a motion is in orderbefore this third ballot that only the two highest candidateson the previous ballot be considered on the next ballot. Thethird ballot then becomes the decisive vote, or the electingballot.

Voting for candidates not nominated:• Voters may vote for anyone who is eligible regardless of

whether or not they have been nominated and anyonereceiving the necessary majority is elected. This is commonlycalled a “sticker ballot.”

Voting on nominations:• After the nominations are closed, the assembly proceeds to

vote upon the names by the method prescribed in theconstitution.

• An election becomes effective immediately if the candidate ispresent and does not decline, or is absent but has consentedto the candidacy. If the nominee is absent and has not con-sented to the nomination, the election becomes effective assoon as notification is made, if it is not declined immediately.

• Unless some other time is specified in the by-laws, an officerassumes the duties of office upon election.

Most organizations make specific detailed provisions for nominat-ing and electing new officers in their constitution and by-laws. Theprovisions ordinarily include such details as the time of nomina-tions, time of elections, method of nominating and electing, andtime of installation.

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Nominations and Elections

A nomination is the formal presentation to the assembly of the nameof a candidate for the office to be filled.

Nominations from the floor:• Nominations do not require a second.• Nominations are in order as soon as the chair calls for them.• As a nomination is made, the chair repeats it and the secretary

records it.• No member may nominate more than one candidate for each

office.• If there are no further nominations, the chair may declare the

nominations closed.• A motion to close the nominations requires a two-thirds vote.• Prior to voting, but following the formal closing of nomina-

tions, nominations may be reopened by a motion, whichrequires only a majority to carry.

Nominations by nominating committee:• Committee may be appointed or elected as the assembly may

choose or as stated in the by-laws.• Nominating committee report presents to the organization the

names of one or more members as candidates for each office.• The report of the nominating committee is not adopted, but

the names are posted and treated as if the person named hadbeen nominated from the floor.

• Further nominations may be made from the floor.

Nominations by ballot:• Chair directs tellers to pass out ballots and the member writes

after each office the name of one person whom he or shedesires to nominate.

• If a candidate receives a majority in this manner, it is usual todeclare that candidate elected.

• If no majority is received, a second ballot is then taken, inwhich candidates nominated by previous ballot are votedupon. If a candidate receives a majority on this ballot, electionis declared.

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Action for Special Purposes

Kind of Motion

To suspendthe rules

To object to theconsiderationof a question

To divide thequestion

To call for adivision

To nominate

To make a requestgrowing out ofpending business

To fix the time atwhich to adjourn

To adjourn

To take a recess

Object

To permit actionnot possible underthe rules

Prevent wastingtime on unimportantbusiness

Secure more carefulconsideration of parts

• To determine theaccuracy of a vivavoce vote

• To secure expressionof individualmember’s vote

Suggest names foroffice

To secure informationor to ask to be excusedfrom a duty

To have legalcontinuation of themeeting

End the meeting

To secure anintermission

Effect

Secures actionwhich wouldotherwise beprevented bythe rules

Supresses themotion

Secures actionby parts

Secures anaccurate checkon vote

Places before thegroup names forconsideration

Providesinformation

Sets definitecontinuationtime

Adjourns themeeting

Delays action

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Action for Special Purposes

Kind of Motion

To lay on thetable

To call for thepreviousquestion

To limit orextend timefor debate

To postponedefinitely (toa certain time)

To commit orrefer

To amend

To postponeindefinitely

To raise a pointof order

To appealfrom thedecision ofthe chair

Object

Clear the floor formore urgent business

Secure immediatevote on pendingquestion

Provides moreor less time fordiscussion

Often gives more timefor informal discus-sion and for securingfollowers

To enable morecareful considerationto be given

To improve themotion

To prevent a voteon the question

To call attentionto a violationof rules

To determine theattitude of thegroup on the rulingmade by the chair

Effect

Delays action

Ends debate

Shortens orlengthensdiscussionperiod

Delays action

Delays action

Changes theoriginal motion

Suppressesthe question

Keeps groupfunctioningaccording toparliamentaryprocedures

Secures rulingof the grouprather than bythe chair

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Glossary of Standard Terms of Parliamentary Procedure

Amend—To change a motion either by adding to it, taking from it,or by altering it in some other way. (See Amendments.)

Blanks, Filling—“Filling Blanks” is a term used to indicate amethod of decision regarding a matter where several different coursesof action are possible. The term “blank” is used because usually thismethod is applied in motions where an exact amount, a name, a date,or some other essential, specific information is left blank.

Business, Order of—The regular program of procedure of a society.(See Agenda.)

Chair—The presiding officer. “Addressing the chair” meansspeaking to the presiding officer. This is done by rising to one’s feet(or raising a hand) when no one else is speaking (with some excep-tions) using the proper salutation, i.e., “Mr. Chairman.” Being“recognized by the chair” means being given permission to speakfurther. (See Progress of Motions.)

Power of Chair—The chair has the following authority:• To decide in what order speakers shall be recognized.• To refuse to recognize members offering dilatory, absurd, or

frivolous motions or motions intended, in his or her judgment, toobstruct business.

• To restrain speakers within the limits of the rules.• To enforce good decorum.• To appoint committees.• To decide points of order.• To vote in cases where the vote would change the result; e.g., to

make or break a tie.• To avoid influencing a vote by comment on a motion under

consideration. Actions of the chair, of course, are subject to appeal.(See Incidental Motion, “to appeal from the decision of the chair.”)

Commit—To refer to a committee.

Committee of the Whole—Sometimes certain matters come upthat can be properly studied and digested only as a committeewould go into them, but which, because of their importance, should

Action for Special Purposes

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Kind of Motion

To raise aquestionof privilege

To call for theorder of the day

To take fromthe table

To reconsider(Only a memberof the prevailingside may makethis motion.)

To reconsider andhave entered onthe minutes (Onlya member of theprevailing sidemay make thismotion.)

To rescind

To ratify

Object

To correctundesirableconditions

To secureadherence toorder of business

Continue theconsiderationof the question

To reconsiderthe question

To reconsider thequestion at thenext meeting

Repeal actionpreviously taken

Approves previousaction taken

Effect

Correctsundesirablecondition

Same as object

Continuesconsiderationof question

Secures furtherconsiderationand another voteon the question

Secures furtherconsiderationand another voteon the question

Same as object

Same as object

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Motion, Subsidiary—A subsidiary motion is one growing out ofand applied to another already under consideration which is madeuse of “to enable the assembly to dispose of it in the most appropriatemanner,” but which need not necessarily be decided before thequestion out of which it has arisen. (See Motions.)

Order—When this term is applied to an act of an assembly, itmeans an expression of a will of the assembly in the form of acommand. An “order” differs from a “resolution” in that the latteris not a command, but a declaration of fact or an expression ofopinion or purposes.

Order, General—“Making a general order” is setting a future timefor the discussion of a special matter. Making a general order differsfrom making a special order in that the former does not involve thebreaking of any rules.

Order of the Day—Regular order or program of business. Amotion “callingfor the orders of the day” is a motion demanding that the presentdiscussion be dropped and that the chair announce the next matterto be taken up in accordance with the organization’s customary andestablished business routine. The term “orders of the day” has morespecific meaning when a certain time has been set aside for theconsideration of a given matter. Then a demand for the “orders ofthe day” is a request that this specific item be addressed.

Order, Special—“Making a special order” is setting aside all otherrules for the consideration of some important question at a futuretime.

Postponement, Indefinite—The object of indefinite postpone-ment is not merely to postpone, but, in effect, to reject.

Privilege—The term “privilege” in parliamentary law has a re-stricted meaning and refers specifically to the privileges or rights ofthe meeting or those attending chiefly in connection with matters ofphysical comfort; such as inability to hear a speaker, the heating,lighting and ventilation of the meeting room, noises and otherdisturbances, etc., and the ineligibility or misconduct of a member in

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be considered by all members and, therefore, should not be referredto a small committee. Then the meeting, on motion duly made, may“resolve itself into a committee of the whole.” This means that themeeting officially is discontinued while everyone remains andbecomes a member of a large special committee including everyonepresent. The presiding officer of the regular meeting does notpreside over a committee of the whole; a special officer is appointed.

Consideration, Informal—When a member moves “informalconsideration,” and the motion is adopted, the meeting lays asideformal rules, allowing each present to speak once on the subjectunder consideration.

Debate—Discussion or argument over a motion.

Division—“Division” in parliamentary law means simply a votewhereby all who are in favor and all who are opposed to a motionstand separately in groups as the chair calls for “ayes” and “nays.”

Floor—The privilege of speaking before the assembly. Thus, whenone “obtains the floor,” the opportunity to speak is granted.

Inquiry, Parliamentary—An investigation or checking to deter-mine the proper course of procedure.

Motion—A formal proposal to a meeting that it take certain action.A motion is a motion when stated by its proponent and untilrepeated by the chair. When it is presented by the chair for accep-tance or rejection it becomes a “question,” a “proposition,” or a“measure.” (See Progress of Motions.)

Motion, Incidental—An incidental motion is one growing out ofanother already under consideration. A secondary motion must bedisposed of before proceding with the original motion. (See Motions.)

Motion, Main—A main motion is one which independentlypresents an idea for consideration. (See Motions.)

Motion, Privileged—A privileged motion is one which is so vitalin character that it takes precedence over all others. (See Motions.)

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Suggested References:

1. Cushing, Luther C. Rules of Procedure and Debate in DeliberativeAssemblies.

2. Fox, Emma A. Parliamentary Usage.

3. Hall, Alta B. and Alice F. Sturgis. Textbook on Parliamentary Law.*

4. Henderson, Melvin and Herbert J. Rucker. A Guide to Parliamen-tary Practices.*

5. Robert, Henry M. Rules of Order and Parliamentary Practice.*

6. Waples, Rufus. A Handbook on Parliamentary Practice.

7. Wines, Emma M. and Marjory W. Card. Come to Order.

8. Jones, Q. Garfield. Parliamentary Procedure at a Glance.

* These references were found most useful in compiling this booklet.

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a meeting at the time. These “questions of privilege” should not beconfused with “privileged motions.” Questions of privilege may beinvolved in motions, but privileged motions include other matters.

Question—The question in parliamentary law is the proposition ormotion after it has been placed before the meeting for action by thechair. To “move the previous question” is to demand that the chairtake a vote on a motion that is being discussed. A “question,” whenadopted, becomes an “order,” “resolution,” or “vote.” (See Motions.)

Question, Division of—To separate a motion so that differentparts of it may be considered individually.

Refer—To refer to a committee.

Resolution—The act of an assembly, the purpose of which is todeclare facts or express opinions or purposes, and not to command.(See Order.)

Rules, Suspension of—“When the assembly wishes to do some-thing that cannot be done without violating its own rules, and yet isnot in conflict with its constitution or by-laws, or with the funda-mental principles of parliamentary law, it ‘suspends the rules thatinterfere with’ the proposed action.” (Robert, Rules of Order andParliamentary Practice)

Second—A motion, in order to be considered by the meeting, musthave a “second,” i.e., a sponsor in the form of a second member whoindicates support of the motion by saying, “I second the motion.”(See Motions.)

Sine die—Latin meaning “without day.” Meetings frequentlyadjourn “sine die.” This means that no date is set for a futuremeeting.

Table—The “table” in parliamentary law is literally the speaker’stable, but to “lay on the table” or “to table” a motion means to delayaction on it.

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SSSS

Reprinted with permission fromCampus Involvement

Washington State Universitygetinvolved@wsu.edu

©Washington State University

2005

College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences

You may order copies of this and other publications from the WSU Bulletin office, 1-800-723-1763, or online http://pubs.wsu.edu

Issued by Washington State University Extension and the U.S. Department of Agriculture in furtherance of the Acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914. WSU Extension programs and policies are consistentwith federal and state laws and regulations on nondiscrimination regarding race, sex, religion, age, color, creed, national or ethnic origin; physical, mental or sensory disability; marital status, sexualorientation, and status as a Vietnam-era or disabled veteran. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local WSU Extension office. Trade names have been used to simplifyinformation; no endorsement is intended. Published April 2005.Subject code 800. D.

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