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Assignment:

Find and watch an episode of a reality show in which teams work together. The Apprentice, Survivor, The Amazing Race, and Big Brother are examples (but I’m sure you can find others!); the important aspect is that teamwork is demonstrated somewhere in the show!

Describe the part of the show that involved teamwork, and within your description be sure to think about or answer the following questions for us (remember, of course, to use concepts and terms from Chapter 10, supporting your writing with scholarly resources, and illustrating your ideas with real examples from your own life):

– Why was the team effective (or not)?

– Could it have been more effective? Did the team encounter any problems? If so, how were they handled?

– To what extent did the group communicate? Did communication flow freely in the group? Why or why not?

– How did the group make decisions?

– Were there social loafers in the group?

– Did any symptoms of groupthink emerge?

FINALLY, answer these three discussion questions:

1. What elements are common to successful teams?

2. What, if any, common problems are encountered by teams?

3. Do you notice any differences in the communication patterns of cohesive and noncohesive groups?