In psychology, the concept of 'functional fixedness' refers to the tendency of individuals to perceive objects only in terms of their typical or intended use, which limits their ability to think of alternative functions. This cognitive bias can hinder problem-solving because it prevents people from using familiar objects in novel ways. Overcoming functional fixedness often requires a deliberate shift in perspective or creative thinking.
🎧 Listening Lecture
Professor: To illustrate functional fixedness, consider a classic experiment. Participants were given a box of thumbtacks, a candle, and a book of matches, and asked to attach the candle to the wall so that it could burn properly without dripping wax on the floor. Many struggled because they saw the box only as a container for thumbtacks. However, the solution was to empty the box, tack it to the wall, and use it as a platform for the candle. Those who couldn't see the box as anything but a holder were stuck. This shows how functional fixedness blocks creative solutions. But once you break that mental set, the answer becomes obvious.
❓ Question Question: Using the example from the lecture, explain the concept of functional fixedness.
📊 TOEFL Speaking Task 3 Rubric
Delivery: Fluency, pronunciation, intonation
Language Use: Grammar, vocabulary, sentence variety
Topic Development: Accurately explain the reading concept and restate the lecture examples
Scored 0-30 based on holistic scoring (original 0-4, scaled to 30). 30s preparation, 60s response.
💡 Answering Tips
Note the core concept definition from the reading (usually 1-2 sentences)
Record 1-2 specific examples the professor uses in the lecture
Start with the concept definition, then explain with lecture examples
Use template phrases: "The reading defines... The professor illustrates this by..."
Keep within 60s; ensure clarity and fluency
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⚠️ AI 自动评分基于托福官方口语三大维度（Delivery / Language Use / Topic Development）标准开发，结果仅供练习参考。
