In psychology, the concept of 'functional fixedness' refers to a cognitive bias that limits a person to using an object only in the way it is traditionally used. This mental block prevents individuals from imagining alternative uses for familiar objects, thereby hindering problem-solving. Functional fixedness often occurs when people are under time pressure or when they have prior experience with an object's standard function. Overcoming this bias requires creative thinking and the ability to reframe the problem.
🎧 Bài giảng
Professor: To illustrate functional fixedness, let me tell you about a classic experiment. Participants were given a box of thumbtacks, a candle, and a book of matches. Their task was to attach the candle to the wall so that it could burn without dripping wax on the floor. Many participants failed because they saw the box only as a container for thumbtacks. They tried to melt wax onto the box or nail the candle directly. But the solution was to empty the box, tack it to the wall, and use it as a shelf for the candle. Those who succeeded had to overcome their habitual view of the box. This shows how functional fixedness can block a simple solution.
❓ Câu hỏi Question: Using the example from the lecture, explain the concept of functional fixedness.
📊 Tiêu chí chấm 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.
💡 Mẹo làm bài
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。
