Apply your knowledge of the characteristics of successful groups and choose the factors which indicate why the teachers at Chelobe High School do or do not meet the criteria of successful groups:

(a) The lack of solidarity among teachers resulted in a lack of cohesion, which is the result of the lack of common goal setting for the school, as well as the little support for one another.
(b) Weak leadership
(c) Phase 4 in the formation of groups at the school did not take place
(d) Negative norms, such as a don’t-care attitude regarding the poor matric pass rate, have settled at the school
(e) A and B
(f) C and E
(g) A, B, D

1 answer

To determine which factors indicate why the teachers at Chelobe High School do not meet the criteria of successful groups, let’s analyze the provided statements:

  1. (a) Lack of solidarity and cohesion due to no common goals and little support: This suggests that the teachers are not unified, which is crucial for a successful team. Successful groups typically have a common direction or objectives that bind them together.

  2. (b) Weak leadership: Effective leadership is a cornerstone of successful groups. Weak leadership can result in disorganization, low morale, and a lack of guidance, all of which negatively impact group success.

  3. (c) Phase 4 in the formation of groups did not take place: Phase 4 refers to the "performing" stage in Tuckman's stages of group development. If this phase did not occur, it implies that the group is unable to operate effectively or collaboratively, hindering success.

  4. (d) Negative norms like a don’t-care attitude regarding the poor matric pass rate: When negative attitudes and norms take root, they detract from group effectiveness and morale. Successful groups foster positive norms that encourage achievement.

Given these analyses:

  • (a), (b), and (d) all highlight significant barriers to group success, indicating a lack of unity, leadership, and a negative attitude toward goals (like pass rates).
  • (c) also points to a failure in group development, which means the group cannot function effectively.
  • Therefore, the selections (g) A, B, D effectively summarize these critical issues.

Answer: (g) A, B, D