Recent advances in cognitive neuroscience have illuminated the mechanisms underlying human memory consolidation during sleep. Contrary to the passive storage metaphor, memory processing during sleep is an active, selective process. Specifically, slow-wave sleep facilitates the hippocampal-neocortical dialogue, transferring episodic memories from temporary hippocampal storage to more permanent neocortical sites. However, this consolidation is not uniform; emotional salience and prior knowledge can bias which memories are strengthened. Moreover, targeted memory reactivation, using sensory cues during sleep, has demonstrated the potential to enhance specific memories, raising both therapeutic possibilities for conditions like PTSD and ethical concerns about memory manipulation. This research underscores that sleep is not merely a restorative state but a critical period for cognitive adaptation, with far-reaching implications for education and clinical practice.
❓ According to the passage, what is a key feature of memory consolidation during sleep?
A. A) It is a passive and uniform process that stores all memories equally.
B. B) It primarily occurs during REM sleep and involves neocortical storage.
C. C) It is an active, selective process influenced by factors like emotion and prior knowledge.
D. D) It can be easily manipulated to erase unwanted memories without side effects.
✅ 正确答案
C) It is an active, selective process influenced by factors like emotion and prior knowledge.
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