In psychology, the concept of 'functional fixedness' refers to a cognitive bias that limits a person to using an object only in its traditional way. This mental block prevents individuals from seeing alternative uses for familiar items, thereby hindering problem-solving and creativity. When faced with a new challenge, people often fail to think beyond an object's intended function, even when a simple solution is available. Overcoming functional fixedness requires a shift in perspective, allowing the mind to explore unconventional applications of everyday objects.
🎧 Listening Lecture
Professor: Now, let me give you a classic example of functional fixedness. Imagine you have a candle, a box of tacks, and a book of matches. Your task is to attach the candle to a wall so it can burn properly. Many people try to melt the wax and stick it to the wall, or nail the candle to the wall with a tack, but both fail. The correct solution is to use the box that holds the tacks as a platform—tack the empty box to the wall, then place the candle on top of it. People often overlook the box because they see it only as a container for tacks, not as a potential shelf. This shows how functional fixedness stops them from reimagining the box's purpose.
❓ 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
🎤 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。
