The concept of neuroplasticity has revolutionized our understanding of the brain's capacity for change. Historically, scientists believed that the adult brain was largely fixed, with neural circuits becoming rigid after critical developmental periods. However, recent research demonstrates that the brain remains highly adaptable throughout life, capable of reorganizing its structure and function in response to experience, injury, or learning. This plasticity occurs at multiple levels, from synaptic strengthening between individual neurons to large-scale cortical remapping. For instance, in individuals who lose their sight, the visual cortex may be recruited to process auditory or tactile information, enhancing their remaining senses. Such findings have profound implications for rehabilitation, suggesting that targeted training can promote functional recovery after stroke or traumatic brain injury. Nevertheless, plasticity is not unlimited; it is constrained by genetic factors and the timing of interventions. Understanding these limits is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies that harness the brain's adaptive potential while acknowledging its inherent boundaries.
❓ 지문에 따르면, 신경가소성에 관한 다음 설명 중 옳은 것은 무엇인가?
A. A) 성인의 뇌는 완전히 고정되어 있으며 아동기 이후에는 변화할 수 없다.
B. B) 신경가소성은 개별 시냅스 수준에서만 발생한다.
C. C) 뇌의 재조직 능력은 감각 상실을 보완하는 데 도움이 될 수 있다.
D. D) 가소성은 무한하며 유전적 또는 시간적 요인의 영향을 받지 않는다.
✅ 正确答案
C) The brain's ability to reorganize can help compensate for sensory loss.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first