Page:Robert's Parliamentary Practice.djvu/216

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194
PARLIAMENTARY PRACTICE

decide just what he would do and the exact words he would use. He must also throw himself into the position of each speaker in succession in the same definite way. When he meets an expression that is not understood, it is generally better not to stop and ponder, but to continue the reading for a sentence or two more and the vagueness will probably clear up. If it does not, he should go back for a few sentences and reread the entire portion of the text bearing on this subject.

Socialized Classes. In teaching English, Geography, Civics, History, etc., where the "Socialized Recitation" is employed, a very good foundation may be laid for the future study of parliamentary law. The offices of chairman and secretary are filled each day by a different member of the class. Committees are appointed for investigation, and make their reports. The chairman, at the beginning of the recitation, announces the subject of the lesson and states that it is open for discussion. Members who wish to take part rise and the floor is assigned as shown in the First Drill. Special emphasis is given to the use of correct forms by the presiding officer as well as by the members. The secretary keeps the minutes of every lesson and passes them on in correct form to his successor. The next day they are read and approved by the class. Without increasing the curriculum, by means of these socialized recitations the proper forms for obtaining the floor, recognition by the chair, taking notes of meetings, transcribing notes into correct minutes, and