A motion is the topic a debate round is fought over. In parliamentary-style formats, motions usually begin with 'This House' - for example, 'This House would raise the minimum wage.' The Proposition supports the motion and the Opposition argues against it. Motions are sometimes also called resolutions, especially in American formats.
Types of Motions
Debate motions come in several common types: policy motions propose a specific action; value motions ask whether something is good or bad; fact motions ask whether a claim is true; and analysis motions ask about the reasons behind a phenomenon. Each type requires a slightly different approach to case construction.
Prepared vs Impromptu Motions
Some tournaments release motions in advance (prepared motions) so teams can research in depth. Others release motions just minutes before the round starts (impromptu motions), testing how quickly students can analyze and build a case. World Schools and CNDF both use a mix. British Parliamentary usually uses impromptu motions with 15 minutes of prep.