Columbia Model Congress
Speaking Suggestions
a. Be proficient in using proper parliamentary procedure.
b. When you make a speech, you should try to bring up new points; don’t
regurgitate content from other people’s speeches. Try to cite facts, historical
information, and statistics. There is no such thing as “I have nothing to say.”
You can always respond to points brought up by previous speakers in your own
speech.
c. Make your speeches with separate points. A good speech should have at least
two strong arguments. Keep your arguments separate.
d. Do not exceed the time limit.
e. Try not to write out speeches or read from your paper. If you don’t feel
comfortable speaking “off the cuff,” you can write some notes or make brief
outlines of your points. Maintain eye contact while speaking.
f. Play devil’s advocate. Speak pro/con if no one else wants to.
g. You should pay close attention to what other delegates are saying in their
speeches and try to ask questions to fellow delegates.
h. Bad bills can be transformed into good ones via amendments. Feel free to
propose constructive changes that will hopefully make the bill passable.
i. Good amendment writing ability is important in full sessions (where there can
be more than 100 people competing). Since all amendments are “unfriendly” in
full session, if you propose an amendment that delegates are willing to debate,
you will have an opportunity to make a speech.
j. You can use your con speeches to advocate for your amendments. After
highlighting weaknesses in a particular piece of legislation, you can propose
amendments to improve the bill.
k. Your bills, motions and amendments will not be able to pass if you alienate your
committee. Befriend your fellow speakers. Try to direct the proceedings in your
room without being obnoxious. Take the initiative to make motions to caucus,
move to previous question, amend, etc. Don’t be overly aggressive. No placard
waving, aggressive hand raising, etc. Be sensitive to the dynamics of your
committee. Some chairs like amendments and questions, others may not.
Some chairs want to enforce strict parliamentary procedures but others
want a more relaxed committee.
l. Don’t be afraid to speak against a piece of legislation. However, when you’re
making a con speech, try to acknowledge the good intentions of a bill and
propose amendments to improve it.