The concept of neuroplasticity, once a revolutionary idea in neuroscience, has now become a cornerstone of modern understanding of the brain. Historically, scientists believed that the adult brain was largely fixed, with neural circuits formed during critical periods of development. However, research over the past few decades has demonstrated that the brain retains a remarkable capacity for reorganization throughout life. This plasticity is not uniform; it is influenced by factors such as age, experience, and the intensity of training. For instance, learning a new skill, such as playing a musical instrument, can lead to structural changes in the motor cortex and cerebellum. Moreover, neuroplasticity has significant implications for rehabilitation after brain injury, as undamaged areas can sometimes take over functions previously handled by damaged regions. Yet, this adaptability also has a downside: maladaptive plasticity can contribute to chronic pain or phantom limb sensations. Thus, while neuroplasticity offers hope for recovery, it also underscores the complexity of brain function and the need for targeted therapeutic interventions.
❓ According to the passage, which of the following statements about neuroplasticity is TRUE?
A. A) Neuroplasticity is uniform across all brain regions and ages.
B. B) The adult brain was traditionally thought to be capable of significant reorganization.
C. C) Neuroplasticity can have both beneficial and detrimental effects.
D. D) Learning a new skill only affects the motor cortex.
✅ 正确答案
C) Neuroplasticity can have both beneficial and detrimental effects.
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