Parliamentary Procedure
Chapter Training Program

Conducting Chapter Meetings: Robert's Rules of Order

A structured professional development course for chapter members on parliamentary procedure, meeting conduct, and effective participation.

Course Learning Objectives

Upon completing this course, you will be able to:

  • Explain the purpose and founding principles of Robert's Rules of Order
  • Correctly make, second, amend, and dispose of motions in a chapter meeting
  • Navigate the standard order of business and apply appropriate voting methods
  • Distinguish between main, subsidiary, privileged, and incidental motions
  • Identify and respond appropriately to out-of-order conduct and improper motions
  • Describe the duties and limitations of the presiding officer
  • Apply proper parliamentary procedure across realistic chapter meeting scenarios
About This Course

This course is for chapter members who want to participate effectively in formal meetings. Robert's Rules of Order has governed organizational meetings for nearly 150 years — and for good reason. When everyone follows the same rules, meetings are fair, efficient, and productive.

Each module ends with a knowledge check you must complete before advancing. A final ten-question assessment closes the course.

Course Structure — 10 Modules
Module 1 — Foundation: What Is Parliamentary Procedure? ▼
Covers the history, purpose, and core principles of Robert's Rules and why they matter for your chapter.
Module 2 — The Language of the Meeting ▼
Defines key vocabulary every member must know before participating in formal business.
Module 3 — The Motion Process ▼
Step-by-step walkthrough of how to introduce, second, debate, amend, and vote on a motion.
Module 4 — Types of Motions ▼
The four categories of motions — main, subsidiary, privileged, and incidental — with a quick-reference chart.
Module 5 — The Order of Business ▼
How a proper meeting agenda is structured, how minutes are approved, and how voting methods differ.
Module 6 — Order and Conduct ▼
Common procedural violations, how the Chair handles them, and what members should do instead.
Module 7 — Member Guidelines ▼
A practical reference of dos and don'ts and standard parliamentary phrases.
Module 8 — The Presiding Officer ▼
Duties, authority, limitations, and language of the ranking member who chairs the meeting.
Module 9 — Applied Scenarios ▼
Six realistic chapter meeting situations requiring you to apply what you've learned.
Module 10 — Knowledge Assessment ▼
A ten-question final assessment. A score of 80% or higher is the recommended passing threshold.
Estimated TimeAllow 60–75 minutes to complete this course, including knowledge checks and the final assessment.
Overview
Module 1 of 10

Foundation: What Is Parliamentary Procedure?

Understanding the purpose and history of Robert's Rules and why structured procedure produces better outcomes for every member.

Module Learning Objectives

  • State the origin and purpose of Robert's Rules of Order
  • Explain why parliamentary procedure benefits every chapter member
  • Identify the four core principles that govern parliamentary procedure
Background

Robert's Rules of Order was first published in 1876 by U.S. Army Brigadier General Henry Martyn Robert. Frustrated by the disorder he observed in meetings — people talking over each other, decisions made without proper consent, minority voices silenced — he adapted U.S. House of Representatives procedures into a rulebook any organization could use.

Today, Robert's Rules is the most widely adopted parliamentary authority in the United States, used by thousands of organizations including fraternal and civic chapters.

Why It Matters for Your Chapter

Without shared procedure, meetings become chaotic. Members with the loudest voices dominate, ideas get lost, votes are disputed, and time is wasted. Parliamentary procedure gives every member — regardless of rank or tenure — an equal process for being heard.

Core PrincipleParliamentary procedure exists to protect the rights of the majority to act, the rights of the minority to be heard, and the rights of individual members to participate fairly.
The Four Governing Principles
1. Only one matter at a time ▼
Only one item of business may be on the floor at any given time. This keeps the meeting focused and prevents confusion about what is being decided.
2. Every member has the right to be heard ▼
Every member has the right to speak to any debatable motion before a vote. The Chair ensures all voices have an opportunity to be recognized.
3. The majority rules — with minority rights protected ▼
Decisions are made by majority vote. However, the minority always retains the right to debate and to raise the matter again at a future meeting.
4. All members are equal in the eyes of the Chair ▼
The presiding officer must treat every member with equal impartiality. Seniority, rank, or personal relationships with the Chair do not grant special privileges.
Watch: Robert's Rules of Order Quickstart — Approx. 3 min
A quick overview of why Robert's Rules exist and the core concepts they address. Requires internet connection.
Module 1 Knowledge CheckAnswer both questions to unlock the next module.
Check 1 of 2
Who authored Robert's Rules of Order, and in what year was it first published?
Check 2 of 2
Which core principle states that the majority decides while the minority retains the right to be heard?
Module 1 complete. You may proceed.
Module 1 of 10
Module 2 of 10

The Language of the Meeting

Parliamentary procedure has its own vocabulary. Knowing these terms is the foundation for participating correctly in any chapter meeting.

Module Learning Objectives

  • Define the core parliamentary terms used in chapter meetings
  • Use correct terminology when addressing the Chair or participating in business
  • Distinguish between commonly confused terms such as "table," "recess," and "adjourn"
Core Terminology
Motion
A formal proposal asking the group to take a specific action. All chapter business begins with a motion.
Second
A signal that another member wants the motion discussed. It does not mean agreement with the motion.
The Floor
Permission to speak. The member who "has the floor" is the only one authorized to speak at that moment.
Chair / Presiding Officer
The individual running the meeting — typically the Chapter President or, in their absence, the Vice President.
Quorum
The minimum number of members required to be present for the chapter to legally conduct binding business.
Ayes / Nays
Ayes = yes votes. Nays = no votes. Used in voice votes on motions.
Table a Motion
Set aside a motion temporarily. It may be taken up again. Not the same as killing the motion permanently.
Point of Order
Any member's right to flag a rules violation as it occurs. No second required — the Chair rules immediately.
Point of Information
A request for a factual clarification only — not an opportunity to offer opinions or extend speaking time.
Amendment
A proposed change to a pending motion's wording. Must be germane (related) to the original motion.
Adjourn
To formally end the meeting entirely. Requires a motion, second, and vote.
Recess
A temporary break. The meeting will resume after the recess period.
Previous Question
A motion to immediately end debate and force a vote. Requires a 2/3 majority to adopt.
Unanimous Consent
When no member objects, the group agrees without a formal vote. Chair asks: "Is there any objection?"
Division of the House
A demand by any member for a more accurate vote count. Call "Division!" from your seat — no recognition needed.
Parliamentary Inquiry
A question about the correct procedure to follow — distinct from Point of Information, which is about facts.
Commonly Confused Terms
Table vs. Postpone IndefinitelyTabling sets a motion aside temporarily — it can return. Postponing indefinitely permanently kills the motion without a direct vote. These are not the same.
Recess vs. AdjournA recess is a break — the meeting continues afterward. Adjourning ends the meeting entirely. Do not confuse these when making a motion.
Point of Order vs. Parliamentary InquiryA Point of Order flags a violation that is happening. A Parliamentary Inquiry asks what the correct procedure is. Both require no second.
Module 2 Knowledge CheckAnswer all three questions to unlock the next module.
Check 1 of 3
When a member "seconds" a motion, what does that signal?
Check 2 of 3
A motion is "tabled." What does this mean for that motion?
Check 3 of 3
A member asks "Point of Information — what is the chapter's service fund balance?" Is this a correct use of Point of Information?
Module 2 complete. You may proceed.
Module 2 of 10
Module 3 of 10

The Motion Process

Every action taken in a formal meeting begins with a motion. This module walks through the complete eight-step process from introduction to final announcement.

Module Learning Objectives

  • Recite and execute the correct sequence for introducing a motion
  • Use proper parliamentary language when making, seconding, and debating a motion
  • Identify what happens at each stage if a procedural error occurs
The Eight Steps of a Motion
1

Address the Chair

Rise or raise your hand and address the Chair by title. Do not begin speaking until recognized.

"Madam President…" / "Mister President…"
2

The Chair Recognizes You

The Chair grants you the floor by stating your name. Only after recognition may you speak.

"The Chair recognizes Brother Johnson."
3

State Your Motion

Begin with "I move that…" and state the action specifically. Vague motions cannot be properly voted on.

"I move that the chapter donate $200 to the campus food pantry from the community service fund."
4

Another Member Seconds

A member calls "Second!" from their seat — no recognition needed. This means they want it discussed, not that they agree with it. Without a second, the motion fails.

"Second." (from seat, no recognition required)
5

The Chair Restates the Motion

The Chair reads the motion back exactly as stated, placing it officially before the assembly and opening debate.

"It has been moved and seconded that the chapter donate $200 to the campus food pantry. Is there any discussion?"
6

Debate

Members are recognized one at a time. The maker of the motion speaks first. Each member may typically speak twice, within the chapter's time limits.

7

The Vote Is Called

When debate ends — or when the Previous Question is successfully moved — the Chair calls the vote.

"Those in favor say Aye… Those opposed say Nay… The Ayes have it."
8

The Chair Announces the Result

The Chair announces both the outcome and what it means for the chapter.

"The motion carries. The chapter will donate $200 to the campus food pantry."
Key Debate Rules
RuleAll remarks during debate must be directed to the Chair, not to other members directly. Say "Through the Chair…" when responding to another member's point.
RuleDebate must address the motion on the floor. Personal comments about other members are out of order.
RuleA motion may be amended during debate. An amendment must be germane — it must relate to the original motion.
Watch: Making a Motion Using Robert's Rules — Approx. 2 min
Watch the motion process demonstrated in sequence. Compare each step to the eight-step framework above. Requires internet connection.
Module 3 Knowledge CheckAnswer all three questions to unlock the next module.
Check 1 of 3
What is the correct opening phrase for making a formal motion?
Check 2 of 3
During debate on a motion, who has the right to speak first?
Check 3 of 3
After a vote is taken, what must the Chair always do?
Module 3 complete. You may proceed.
Module 3 of 10
Module 4 of 10

Types of Motions

Not all motions are equal. Robert's Rules categorizes motions by purpose and assigns each specific rules governing how they are handled.

Module Learning Objectives

  • Classify motions into their correct category: main, subsidiary, privileged, or incidental
  • State whether a specific motion requires a second, is debatable, and what vote it requires
  • Use the quick-reference chart to look up motion rules during a meeting
The Four Categories
Main Motions — Introduce New Business ▼

Introduces a new item of business. Can only be made when no other business is pending.

Example"I move that the chapter co-host a community service event with the Alpha chapter on October 12th."
Subsidiary Motions — Modify or Delay a Main Motion ▼
  • Amend — Change the wording. Must be germane. Requires second; debatable; majority vote.
  • Table — Set aside temporarily. Not debatable. Majority vote.
  • Previous Question — End debate immediately. Not debatable. Requires 2/3 vote.
  • Refer to Committee — Send to a smaller group. Debatable. Majority vote.
  • Postpone to Definite Time — Delay to a specified date. Debatable. Majority vote.
Privileged Motions — Urgent, Highest Priority ▼
  • Adjourn — End the meeting. Second required; not debatable; majority vote.
  • Recess — Take a break. Second required; not debatable; majority vote.
  • Fix the Time to Adjourn — Set when the meeting ends.
Incidental Motions — Handle Procedural Issues ▼
  • Point of Order — Flag a rules violation. No second; Chair rules immediately.
  • Appeal the Ruling of the Chair — Challenge a ruling. Requires second; assembly votes.
  • Division of the House — Demand accurate recount. Call "Division!" from seat.
  • Parliamentary Inquiry — Ask about correct procedure. No second needed.
Motion to Reconsider — Revisit a Vote ▼

Allows the chapter to revisit a vote taken at the same meeting. Must be moved by someone who voted on the prevailing side. Requires a second and majority vote. Commonly misunderstood — it does not automatically reverse the vote; it reopens debate.

Quick Reference Chart
MotionCategorySecond?Debatable?Vote Required
Main MotionMainYesYesMajority
AmendSubsidiaryYesYesMajority
Refer to CommitteeSubsidiaryYesYesMajority
Postpone to Definite TimeSubsidiaryYesYesMajority
Table (Lay on the Table)SubsidiaryYesNoMajority
Previous QuestionSubsidiaryYesNoTwo-thirds
AdjournPrivilegedYesNoMajority
RecessPrivilegedYesNoMajority
Point of OrderIncidentalNoNoChair Rules
Appeal Chair's RulingIncidentalYesYesMajority
Division of the HouseIncidentalNoNoNo Vote
Motion to ReconsiderMainYesYesMajority
Watch: Voting on a Motion — Robert's Rules — Approx. 2 min
Focuses on what happens after debate closes — calling the vote, announcing results, and handling unclear outcomes. Requires internet connection.
Module 4 Knowledge CheckAnswer all three questions to unlock the next module.
Check 1 of 3
Which type of motion introduces new business and can only be made when the floor is clear?
Check 2 of 3
Which motion requires a two-thirds vote to pass?
Check 3 of 3
A member raises a "Point of Order." Does this require a second?
Module 4 complete. You may proceed.
Module 4 of 10
Module 5 of 10

The Order of Business

A well-run meeting follows a predictable sequence. This module covers the standard meeting agenda, how minutes are approved, and the voting methods available to your chapter.

Module Learning Objectives

  • List the standard order of business and identify where each type of item belongs
  • Explain how meeting minutes are approved and corrected
  • Distinguish between the six voting methods and identify when each is appropriate
  • Explain when a member must recuse themselves due to a conflict of interest
The Standard Order of Business

Robert's Rules prescribes a standard sequence for meeting agenda items. Your chapter's bylaws may adjust this order, but the following is the default structure recognized by virtually all organizations.

1

Call to Order

The Chair calls the meeting to order and confirms a quorum is present. No business may proceed without quorum.

"The meeting will come to order. A quorum is present."
2

Reading and Approval of Minutes

The Secretary reads the minutes from the previous meeting (or members read them in advance). Members may move to correct errors. Then the minutes are approved — by motion, vote, or unanimous consent.

"Are there any corrections to the minutes? Hearing none, the minutes are approved as read."
3

Officer Reports

The President, Treasurer, and other officers give brief updates. After each report, the Chair asks if there are any questions. Reports are received — not voted on — unless they contain a recommendation requiring action.

4

Committee Reports

Standing and special committees report their findings. If a committee recommends action, that recommendation becomes a motion on the floor.

5

Unfinished Business

Items carried over from a previous meeting — motions that were tabled, postponed, or not completed. These take priority over new proposals.

6

New Business

Any new proposals, motions, or items members wish to bring before the chapter. This is where most main motions originate.

7

Announcements

Informational items that do not require a vote — upcoming events, deadlines, chapter news. No motions are in order during announcements.

8

Adjournment

The Chair asks for a motion to adjourn, or declares the meeting adjourned if all business is complete.

"If there is no further business, the meeting is adjourned."
Voting Methods

Robert's Rules recognizes six voting methods. The Chair selects the appropriate method based on the type of business, and the chapter's bylaws may require specific methods for certain votes.

Voice Vote (Viva Voce) — Default Method ▼
The Chair calls "Those in favor say Aye… Those opposed say Nay." The Chair judges the result by volume. Any member may call "Division!" if the outcome is unclear, demanding a more precise count.
Show of Hands — Common in Small Meetings ▼
Members raise their hands to vote. More accurate than a voice vote and easy to count in a small assembly. The Chair or tellers count the hands.
Rising Vote — Used When Accuracy Matters ▼
Members stand to indicate their vote. Used when a two-thirds threshold must be verified, or when a voice vote result was challenged via "Division!"
Secret Ballot — Required for Elections ▼
Members write their vote on paper and submit it anonymously. Required by most bylaws for officer elections and votes where social pressure could affect the result. The Chair votes by ballot like all other members.
Roll Call — Creates a Recorded Vote ▼
The Secretary calls each member's name; they respond "Aye," "Nay," or "Abstain." Each vote is recorded in the minutes. Used when accountability is important or required by bylaws.
General Consent (Unanimous Consent) ▼
The Chair asks "Is there any objection?" If no one objects, the motion carries without a formal vote. Used for routine, non-controversial business to save time.
Conflict of Interest and Recusal
When a Member Must RecuseIf a member has a direct personal or financial interest in the outcome of a vote — separate from the general interests of the chapter — they should disclose the conflict and abstain from voting. This is both an ethical obligation and, in many organizations, a bylaw requirement. The member may still participate in debate unless the assembly votes to exclude them.
Abstaining Is Not the Same as Voting NoA member who abstains does not vote either way. Abstentions are not counted as votes and do not affect the majority calculation. However, abstaining without cause when a matter directly concerns the chapter is generally discouraged.
Module 5 Knowledge CheckAnswer all three questions to unlock the next module.
Check 1 of 3
In the standard order of business, which item comes immediately before New Business?
Check 2 of 3
Which voting method is most appropriate for chapter officer elections?
Check 3 of 3
A member has a direct personal financial interest in the outcome of a vote. What should they do?
Module 5 complete. You may proceed.
Module 5 of 10
Module 6 of 10

Order and Conduct

Being ruled out of order is not a personal judgment — it is the Chair doing their job. This module covers the most frequent violations, what triggers each ruling, and how members should respond.

Module Learning Objectives

  • Identify the most common procedural violations in a chapter meeting
  • Explain what the Chair is required to do when each violation occurs
  • Describe the correct behavior that should have been taken in each case
Common Violations and Rulings
ViolationSpeaking Without Recognition

Brother Davis calls out from his seat: "That's way too much money — we spent less last year!"

Out of Order
No member may speak without being recognized by the Chair. The Chair responds: "Brother Davis, you are out of order. Please address the Chair and wait to be recognized."
ViolationMaking a New Main Motion While One Is Pending

A motion on chapter apparel is being debated. Sister Williams says: "I move that we plan a road trip to the regional conference!"

Out of Order
A new main motion cannot be introduced while another is on the floor. The Chair: "That motion is out of order. There is a motion currently pending before the assembly."
ViolationDebating a Non-Debatable Motion

A motion to table is made and seconded. Brother King begins: "Wait — I want to explain why we shouldn't table this yet…"

Out of Order
A motion to table is not debatable. The Chair must immediately call the vote: "Brother King, the motion to lay on the table is not open to debate. We will proceed to the vote."
ViolationPersonal Attacks During Debate

Sister Reeves says during debate: "I can't believe Brother Thomas even suggested this. He never shows up to anything."

Out of Order
Debate must address the motion, not other members. The Chair: "Sister Reeves, remarks must be addressed to the motion, not to individual members. Please confine your comments to the matter before the assembly."
Improper MotionVague or Unactionable Motion

Sister Brown: "I move that we do something about the chapter finances."

Improper — Must Be Restated
The motion lacks a specific actionable proposal. The Chair asks for a restatement. A corrected version: "I move that the Treasurer provide a written financial report at each monthly chapter meeting."
ViolationNon-Germane Amendment

Motion on floor: "I move the chapter donate $100 to a food bank." Brother Clay: "I move to amend to instead use that $100 for a chapter social."

Amendment Out of Order
An amendment must be germane — related to the original motion. Changing a donation into a social is a new idea. The Chair: "The amendment is out of order. It is not germane to the original motion."
Module 6 Knowledge CheckAnswer all three questions to unlock the next module.
Check 1 of 3
A member makes a new main motion while another is already on the floor. What is the Chair's correct ruling?
Check 2 of 3
What makes an amendment "out of order"?
Check 3 of 3
A member says "Point of Information" and then delivers a two-minute opinion on the pending motion. This is:
Module 6 complete. You may proceed.
Module 6 of 10
Module 7 of 10

Member Guidelines

A practical reference of proper member conduct, standard parliamentary phrases, and behavioral expectations that apply to every member in every meeting.

Module Learning Objectives

  • Apply the conduct standards expected of every chapter member during formal meetings
  • Correctly use the standard parliamentary phrases required for common meeting actions
Member Conduct Standards
Required Conduct
  • +Wait to be recognized by the Chair before speaking
  • +Address all remarks to the Chair, not to other members directly
  • +State motions clearly beginning with "I move that…"
  • +Second motions you want discussed, even if undecided on your vote
  • +Keep debate relevant to the pending motion
  • +Raise a Point of Order when a violation occurs
  • +Accept and follow the Chair's rulings; appeal them properly if you disagree
  • +Remain attentive and seated during active business
  • +Respect the result of a majority vote, even if you voted against it
  • +Disclose any conflict of interest before a related vote
Prohibited Conduct
  • —Speaking without recognition from the Chair
  • —Interrupting a member who holds the floor
  • —Making personal remarks about other members during debate
  • —Introducing a new main motion while one is pending
  • —Debating a non-debatable motion
  • —Engaging in side conversations during business
  • —Using "Point of Information" to make a speech or share an opinion
  • —Raising procedural points as a delay tactic
  • —Ignoring or defying the Chair's ruling
  • —Voting when a conflict of interest exists
Standard Parliamentary Phrases
To Make a Motion
"I move that [specific proposed action]."
To Second
"Second." (from your seat — no recognition required)
To Amend
"I move to amend the motion by [inserting / striking / replacing] the words…"
To Table
"I move to lay the motion on the table."
To End Debate
"I move the previous question." (requires 2/3 vote)
Point of Order
"Point of Order!" (may interrupt a speaker if necessary)
To Request Recount
"Division!" (call from seat after a voice vote)
To Appeal a Ruling
"I appeal from the decision of the Chair." (immediately after the ruling)
Parliamentary Inquiry
"Parliamentary inquiry — what is the correct procedure for…?"
To Adjourn
"I move that we adjourn."
Module 7 Knowledge CheckAnswer both questions to unlock the next module.
Check 1 of 2
During debate, all remarks should be directed to whom?
Check 2 of 2
Which of the following is the correct phrase to challenge an inaccurate voice vote?
Module 7 complete. You may proceed.
Module 7 of 10
Module 8 of 10

The Presiding Officer

The ranking member who chairs the meeting holds the most consequential procedural role in the chapter. This module covers their duties, limitations, language, and accountability.

Module Learning Objectives

  • List the core duties and required actions of the presiding officer
  • Identify specific conduct prohibited for the Chair
  • Explain the procedure for challenging a ruling of the Chair
  • Describe what must happen before the Chair may participate in debate
Core Duties of the Chair
Meeting Management
  • Call the meeting to order and confirm quorum is present
  • Announce the agenda and move through each item in order
  • Recognize members who seek the floor — in the order they are recognized
  • Restate every motion after it is seconded, placing it before the assembly
  • Ensure the maker of the motion speaks first in debate
  • Rule on all Points of Order immediately and without debate
  • Call for the vote and announce the result and its meaning clearly
  • Declare the meeting adjourned once business is concluded
Impartiality Requirements
  • The Chair does not vote except by secret ballot or to break/create a tie, per bylaws
  • The Chair does not participate in debate while presiding
  • The Chair does not show preference when recognizing speakers
  • The Chair does not offer personal opinions on pending motions
Standard Language of the Chair
Opening the Meeting ▼
"The meeting will come to order. A quorum is present. The first order of business is the approval of the minutes from the previous meeting."
Placing a Motion Before the Assembly ▼
"It has been moved and seconded that [restate motion exactly]. Is there any discussion?"
Calling for the Vote ▼
"Those in favor say Aye… Those opposed say Nay… The Ayes have it. The motion is adopted." (or "The Nays have it. The motion is lost.")
Ruling a Member Out of Order ▼
"[Member name] is out of order. [State the specific reason.] Please [state correct behavior]."
Adjourning the Meeting ▼
"If there is no further business to come before the assembly, the meeting is adjourned."
When the Chair Wants to Debate

The Chair must remain impartial. To speak in debate on a pending motion, the President must first yield the chair to the next ranking officer.

Procedure"I will temporarily yield the chair to Vice President [Name] so that I may speak to this motion." After speaking, they may reclaim the chair — but their neutrality for that session has been compromised.
Appealing a Ruling of the Chair
1

Immediately After the Ruling

State: "I appeal from the decision of the Chair." This right lapses if other business intervenes.

2

Another Member Seconds

The appeal requires a second to proceed.

3

The Chair States the Question

"Shall the decision of the Chair be sustained?" The Chair may briefly explain their ruling.

4

The Assembly Votes

A majority vote against the Chair overrules the ruling. The Chair is bound by the assembly's decision.

Watch: Robert's Rules in a Nutshell — Approx. 3 min
A concise overview of how the Chair manages the full meeting flow — useful review before the applied scenarios module. Requires internet connection.
Module 8 Knowledge CheckAnswer all three questions to unlock the next module.
Check 1 of 3
Under what circumstance may the presiding officer vote?
Check 2 of 3
A member says "I appeal from the decision of the Chair." What happens next?
Check 3 of 3
The Chapter President wants to speak in debate on a pending motion. What must they do first?
Module 8 complete. You may proceed.
Module 8 of 10
Module 9 of 10

Applied Scenarios

Apply what you have learned. Read each scenario, determine the correct course of action, then reveal the ruling to compare your reasoning.

Module Learning Objectives

  • Apply parliamentary procedure rules to realistic chapter meeting situations
  • Determine whether a member's action is in order, out of order, or improper
  • Identify the correct response from both the Chair and the member involved
Scenarios
Scenario 1The Budget Conflict

A motion to allocate $500 for chapter apparel is on the floor. Sister Patton says: "I move that we instead use that $500 to fund our probate show." What should the Chair do?

Out of Order
A new main motion cannot be made while another is pending. The Chair: "Sister Patton, the motion is out of order. There is a motion currently before the assembly. You may introduce your motion once this matter is resolved."
Scenario 2The Disputed Voice Vote

A voice vote is taken and the Chair announces the Ayes have it. Brother Hicks calls out: "I couldn't hear a clear majority either way!" What should Brother Hicks do and what must the Chair do?

Division Required
Brother Hicks should call "Division!" from his seat — no recognition required. The Chair must immediately conduct a rising or hand-count vote. This is a right, not a challenge to the Chair's authority.
Scenario 3Ending a Long Debate

A motion has been debated for 45 minutes with the same arguments repeating. Sister Lane rises: "I move the previous question." Brother Ellis objects: "She can't do that — we're not done!" Is Sister Lane's motion in order?

Proper — Motion Is in Order
Sister Lane is correct. Any member may move the previous question. It requires a second and a 2/3 vote to pass. Brother Ellis cannot block it — the assembly decides. The Chair calls for a second and votes immediately.
Scenario 4Conducting Business Without Quorum

Only 8 of the required 15 members are present. The VP calls the meeting to order and a motion is made to spend $400 from the chapter fund. May the chapter proceed to vote?

No — Quorum Not Present
Without quorum, the chapter cannot conduct binding business. Any vote taken is null and void. The presiding officer must announce: "A quorum is not present. The chapter may not conduct business. We may recess and wait for additional members, or we may adjourn."
Scenario 5The President Wants to Speak

President Hayes has a strong opinion on a pending motion and wants to speak in favor of it. She is currently presiding. What must she do before speaking?

Proper Procedure
President Hayes must temporarily yield the chair: "I will temporarily yield the chair to Vice President [Name] so that I may address the assembly on this motion." After speaking, she may reclaim the chair.
Scenario 6Revisiting a Vote

The chapter just voted to donate $300 to charity. An hour later, still in the same meeting, Brother Mills (who voted Yes) says: "I've changed my mind. I move to reconsider the donation vote." Is this in order?

Proper — Motion to Reconsider
Brother Mills may move to reconsider because he voted on the prevailing side (he voted Yes and the motion passed). The motion requires a second and a majority vote to reopen debate. It does not automatically reverse the decision — it reopens it.
Module 9 Knowledge CheckAnswer all three questions to unlock the final assessment.
Check 1 of 3
A voice vote result seems unclear. What is the correct immediate action for any member who doubts the outcome?
Check 2 of 3
Who may make a motion to reconsider a vote?
Check 3 of 3
During a meeting, only 7 of the required 15 quorum members remain. What is the correct course of action?
Module 9 complete. Proceed to the final assessment.
Module 9 of 10
Module 10 of 10

Knowledge Assessment

This ten-question assessment covers the full course. A score of 80% or higher (8 of 10) is the recommended passing threshold.

Assessment Criteria

  • Demonstrates understanding of foundational parliamentary principles
  • Correctly identifies procedural requirements for common motions
  • Recognizes out-of-order conduct and applies correct responses
  • Understands the role and limitations of the presiding officer
Question 1 of 10Score: 0 / 10
Question 1 of 10
Before speaking in a formal chapter meeting, what is the first required action?
Question 2 of 10
A motion receives no second. What is the correct outcome?
Question 3 of 10
In the standard order of business, what comes immediately before New Business?
Question 4 of 10
Which vote threshold is required to adopt the Previous Question (end debate)?
Question 5 of 10
A member believes the Chair made an incorrect ruling. What is the correct procedure?
Question 6 of 10
Which voting method is most appropriate for officer elections?
Question 7 of 10
Motion on the floor: "Donate $100 to a food bank." A member moves to amend it to "use $100 for a chapter social." How should the Chair rule?
Question 8 of 10
The Chapter President wishes to speak in debate on a pending motion. What must occur first?
Question 9 of 10
Only 8 of the required 15 quorum members are present when a vote is called. Is this vote valid?
Question 10 of 10
Which is the correctly stated motion to donate chapter funds to charity?
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out of 10
Module 10 of 10