In psychology, the concept of 'functional fixedness' refers to a cognitive bias that limits a person to using an object only in its traditional manner. This mental block prevents individuals from recognizing alternative uses for familiar items, thereby hindering creative problem-solving. When faced with a challenge, people often become fixated on an object's typical function, overlooking novel ways it could serve their needs. Overcoming functional fixedness requires a conscious effort to think beyond conventional associations and explore the potential versatility of everyday things.
🎧 Лекция
Professor: Today, let's consider a classic experiment that illustrates functional fixedness. Participants were given a box of thumbtacks, a candle, and a book of matches. Their task was to attach the candle to a corkboard wall so it could burn properly. Many struggled because they fixated on the box as merely a container for the tacks. The solution, however, was to empty the box, tack it to the wall as a shelf, and place the candle on it. Those who failed couldn't see the box beyond its usual role. This demonstrates how our preconceived notions about an object's function can block creative solutions.
❓ Вопрос Using the example from the lecture, explain the concept of functional fixedness.
📊 Критерии оценки TOEFL Speaking Task 3
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.
💡 Советы
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
🎤 免费 AI 口语评分
基于 2800+ 托福真题评分库 · 无限次免费使用
⚠️ 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。
