Division of a Question (Incidental)

The Standard Descriptive Characteristics (abbrev. SDCs) for a Division of a Question that relate to Debate, Seconding, and Voting requirements describe the detailed criteria for debate procedures, the requirements for seconding motions, and the thresholds needed for voting.

• They specify detailed criteria for debate procedures, requirements for seconding motions, and thresholds for voting.

• They only define a general debate framework.

• They relate only to procedural aspects of seconding.

• They solely indicate voting thresholds.

The Standard Descriptive Characteristics for a Division of a Question (abbrev. SDCs) that relate to: 1. Seconding, 2. If it can be amended, and 3. If it can be made when another member has the floor, are defined as follows:

• They specify whether a division of a question can be seconded, amended, and if it can be attempted when another member has the floor.

• They only specify the rules for floor control.

• They only determine the ability to amend the question.

• They only define who can second a division of the question.

Name two motions that a Division of a Question can be applied to.

• Main Motion

• Amend (if the amendment is divisible)

Can a motion to divide a main question be made while an amendment to the main question is pending?

• Yes

• No

If a motion is moved to establish a committee and give it instructions, is it divisible?

• No

• The two parts cannot stand alone as separate motions.

Explain your answer to question #1.

How can a member delete part of an indivisible motion?

Assume that an organization with 26 members is conducting a regular meeting and 15 members are in attendance. A Division of a Question is made, seconded and stated by the chair, and one member abstains from voting. What vote is required to adopt a Division of a Question; how many members cast a vote; and what is the minimum affirmative vote required to adopt the Division of a Question?

• Majority vote; 14 cast a vote; 8 affirmative votes required

• Two-thirds vote; 15 cast a vote; 10 affirmative votes required

• Unanimous vote; 14 cast a vote; 8 affirmative votes required

• Majority vote; 15 cast a vote; 7 affirmative votes required

Name two forms of wording used to make the motion Division of a Question.

• I move to divide the resolution (or motion) so as to consider separately...

• I move to divide the resolution (or motion) into two parts as follows: To purchase a new computer and to purchase a new printer.

State a motion to divide the main motion, to purchase a new computer and printer.

• I move that the motion for purchasing a new computer and printer be divided into two separate motions: one for the computer and one for the printer.

• I move to combine the purchase of a new computer and printer into one motion.

• I move to reject the main motion altogether.

• I move that no changes be made to the main motion.