Part IV: Candidate Forums
Elements of a Moderator Script
Every LWV moderator has a different style and prepares in a different way. Every LWV moderator or speaker should, however, have an outline of the required “elements” of their remarks. Your remarks may be brief, but having even a few words jotted on a notecard will help ensure that you’ve communicated effectively.
Most of the time, the event planner will provide you with a script or an outline. You should always review it in advance, discuss it with the event planner, and feel free to restate things in words that match your own speaking style.
Elements of an opening LWV script
Start on time and keep this part brief
Welcome both the speakers and the audience
Note every speaker’s name and title (president, moderator, committee chair, etc.)
Describe LWV – tell them our mission
Refer to printed program for forum rules and time limits
Cover the location logistics – restrooms, refreshments, etc.
State the ending time
Instruct the audience how to ask a question (based on chosen format)
Remind attendees to silence electronic devices
Indicate the LWV video and audio policies
Remind them there is a recording in process
Recommend that the audience hold their applause until the end of the forum
Thank everyone in advance – audience, speakers, host facility
Other script considerations
Audience is there to hear speakers, not lengthy introductions
Inform the speakers and the audience of time limits and introduce the timers
Establish the moderator’s credentials
Acknowledge co-host in a meaningful way
Explain where questions came from and what the question facilitators do
Elements of a closing LWV script
End on time
Thank the speakers and invite audience to applaud
Inform audience of resources for additional information
Thank volunteers – timekeepers, question facilitators, LWV members, co-hosts, volunteers, facility host
Invite audience to learn more about LWV and to join
Announce upcoming programs/events
Remind everyone to vote on Election Day
Encourage audience to stay and visit informally with speakers and LWV members
Say goodnight!
