Roberts Rules Flashcards
What is the primary purpose of Robert’s Rules of Order?
To provide a standardized method for conducting meetings and making decisions.
True or False: Robert’s Rules are only applicable to governmental meetings.
False
What is a quorum?
The minimum number of members required to be present for the meeting to conduct business.
Fill in the blank: A __________ is a formal proposal that the board takes action on.
motion
What does it mean to ‘second’ a motion?
To show that at least one other member supports the motion and wants it to be discussed.
What is the role of the chairperson in a meeting?
To preside over the meeting, ensuring order and facilitating discussion.
True or False: Members can interrupt a speaker at any time.
False
What is an agenda?
A list of items to be discussed at a meeting.
What is a point of order?
A request for clarification on the rules or procedures being followed in the meeting.
When can a motion be amended?
During the discussion before a vote is taken.
What is the purpose of the minutes?
To provide an official record of what occurred during the meeting.
True or False: All members have equal speaking time during discussions.
True
What does it mean to table a motion?
To postpone consideration of a motion to a later time.
What is a vote of no confidence?
A vote to indicate that the board no longer supports a person in a leadership position.
Fill in the blank: A __________ is a formal way to end a meeting.
adjournment
What is a special meeting?
A meeting called to address specific issues outside the regular meeting schedule.
True or False: Members can speak more than once on the same motion.
True, but typically only after all members who wish to speak once have done so.
What is a committee report?
A summary of findings and recommendations presented by a committee to the board.
What does it mean to call the question?
To end debate on a motion and proceed to vote.
What is the difference between a primary motion and a secondary motion?
A primary motion introduces a new topic, while a secondary motion relates to the primary motion.
What is a closed meeting?
A meeting that is not open to the public, often for sensitive discussions.
True or False: All decisions made in a meeting must be unanimous.
False
What does it mean to yield the floor?
To give up one’s right to speak to allow another member to speak.
What is the purpose of a motion to reconsider?
To bring back a motion that has already been voted on for further consideration.
Fill in the blank: The __________ is the person who takes notes during the meeting.
secretary
What is the purpose of a roll call vote?
To record the votes of each member individually.
What is the standard voting method used in meetings?
Voice vote, unless a member requests a different method.
True or False: Members can vote by proxy.
False, unless specifically allowed by the organization’s rules.
What is a main motion?
A proposal that introduces a new item of business to the floor.
What is the purpose of a motion to suspend the rules?
To temporarily set aside the established rules for a specific purpose.
Fill in the blank: A __________ is an informal discussion of an issue before a formal motion is made.
discussion
What is the consequence of a tie vote?
The motion fails, as a tie does not achieve the required majority.
What does it mean to withdraw a motion?
To formally take back a motion that has been made before it is voted on.
What is an executive session?
A portion of a meeting closed to non-members to discuss confidential matters.
True or False: A member can speak for an unlimited amount of time.
False, speaking time is typically limited.
What is a friendly amendment?
An amendment to a motion that is accepted by the original proposer.
What is the role of the sergeant-at-arms?
To maintain order during the meeting.
What does it mean to divide the question?
To separate a motion into two or more parts so they can be voted on individually.
Fill in the blank: A __________ is a request for information or clarification during a meeting.
point of information
What is the purpose of a motion to limit debate?
To set a time limit on discussion of a motion.
True or False: The chairperson can vote on motions.
True, but typically only to break a tie.
What is the role of the treasurer in a meeting?
To report on the financial status and present the budget.
What is a privileged motion?
A motion that addresses urgent matters that require immediate attention.
Fill in the blank: A __________ is a motion that brings a matter back before the group.
reconsideration
What does it mean to call for a division?
To request a more precise method of voting when the result is unclear.
What is the main difference between a regular meeting and a special meeting?
A special meeting is called to address specific issues outside the regular agenda.
True or False: Members can make motions during the open floor discussion.
True
What is the role of the parliamentarian?
To advise the chair on parliamentary procedure and rules.
What does it mean to ‘take from the table’?
To bring a previously tabled motion back for discussion.
Fill in the blank: A __________ is a motion that expresses the board’s opinion on an issue.
resolution
What is the purpose of a motion to extend debate?
To allow additional time for discussion on a motion.
True or False: A motion must be seconded to be considered.
True
What is a call to order?
An announcement made by the chair to start the meeting.
What does it mean to have the floor?
To have the right to speak during a meeting.
What is an agenda item?
A specific topic listed for discussion during a meeting.
Fill in the blank: A __________ is a formal declaration that a motion has been adopted.
resolution
What is the purpose of a motion to lay on the table?
To temporarily set aside a motion for future consideration.
True or False: Only the chair can make motions.
False
What is the function of the agenda?
To organize the topics to be discussed during the meeting.
What does it mean to ‘speak to the motion’?
To provide arguments for or against a specific motion.
Fill in the blank: A __________ is a motion that requires immediate attention.
privileged motion
What is the purpose of a motion to amend?
To change the wording or details of a motion before voting.
True or False: Members must show respect and civility during discussions.
True
What is a main motion?
A motion that introduces a new subject for discussion.
What is the significance of a motion being ‘carried’?
It means the motion has been approved by a majority vote.
What does it mean to ‘recess’ a meeting?
To take a short break during the meeting.
Fill in the blank: A __________ is a formal complaint or issue raised by a member.
grievance
What is the role of the vice-chair?
To assist the chair and take over their responsibilities in their absence.
True or False: The chairperson has the authority to silence disruptive members.
True
What does it mean to ‘vote by acclamation’?
To vote unanimously without a formal count.
What is a motion for previous question?
A motion to end debate and proceed to a vote.
Fill in the blank: A __________ is a point raised that is not directly related to the current motion.
point of order
What is the purpose of a motion to withdraw?
To retract a motion made before it has been voted on.
True or False: All members are required to vote on every issue.
False
What is the role of the secretary during a meeting?
To record minutes and keep official documents.
What does it mean to ‘call for a vote’?
To request that members cast their votes on a motion.
Fill in the blank: A __________ is a detailed account of the proceedings of a meeting.
minute
What is the definition of a standing rule?
A rule that governs the internal operations of the organization.
