The concept of neuroplasticity has revolutionized our understanding of the human brain. Traditionally, scientists believed that the brain's structure was fixed after childhood, with no capacity for significant change in adulthood. However, recent research demonstrates that the brain remains highly adaptable throughout life, constantly reorganizing its neural pathways in response to learning, experience, and even injury. This plasticity is most pronounced in the hippocampus, a region critical for memory formation, and the cerebral cortex, which governs higher-order functions such as decision-making and sensory processing. For instance, studies on London taxi drivers revealed that their posterior hippocampus was significantly larger than average, correlating with their extensive navigation experience. Such findings suggest that targeted mental training could potentially mitigate cognitive decline in aging populations, though the extent of this protective effect remains under investigation.
❓ According to the passage, what is the main implication of neuroplasticity for the adult brain?
A. A. The brain's structure becomes completely fixed after childhood.
B. B. The brain can reorganize its neural connections in response to experiences throughout life.
C. C. The hippocampus is the only brain region capable of change.
D. D. Mental training has been proven to fully prevent cognitive decline in older adults.
✅ 正确答案
B. The brain can reorganize its neural connections in response to experiences throughout life.
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