Analysis of a Group Paper Assignment – Each student will choose to critically analyze and assess a group s functioning and write a 4-5 page, APA format (with title page) paper from one of two options presented:
Option 1: Media Group Analysis
Students will select and analyze a small group as it is portrayed in a popular film. Suggestions may include (but are not limited to) such movies as Lord of the Rings, Arthur, The Breakfast Club, Steel Magnolias, or Hoosiers. Selected films must be submitted to and approved by the professor. Film choice should be based on a proper definition of a small group (consisting of 3-7 members) with distinct group formation and development processes depicted. Students will apply the principles and/or concepts studied and discussed in class in analyzing the small groups within the film selected. Issues such as through what stage or stages the small group progresses/regresses, an evaluation of verbal and non-verbal tactics, or description of each group member s role(s), an analysis of group problem-solving/conflict management processes, an assessment of group leadership and overall effectiveness. At least 5 principles and/or concepts presented in class will be clearly applied to the media group analysis. In a concluding paragraph, students will critically reflect on those aspects of the group analyzed that represent sound and unsound (fallacious) reasoning with possible suggestions for greater effectiveness and more optimum small group functioning. Use of critical thinking standards is highly recommended.
We use the book communicating in small groups for concepts learned in class.
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