The concept of 'neuroplasticity' has revolutionized our understanding of the human brain. Historically, scientists believed that the adult brain was largely fixed, with neural circuits becoming immutable after a critical period in childhood. However, recent research demonstrates that the brain retains a remarkable capacity for reorganization throughout life. This adaptability is driven by synaptic strengthening and the formation of new neural pathways in response to learning, experience, or even injury. For instance, individuals who lose their sight often exhibit enhanced tactile or auditory processing, as cortical areas normally devoted to vision are recruited for other senses. While neuroplasticity offers hope for rehabilitation after stroke or trauma, its limits remain a subject of debate. Over-stimulation or maladaptive plasticity can lead to chronic pain or phantom limb sensations, suggesting that the brain's flexibility is a double-edged sword.
❓ 지문에 따르면, 신경가소성의 잠재적 단점은 무엇인가?
A. A. 그것은 오직 아동기에만 발생한다.
B. B. 그것은 만성 통증과 같은 부정적인 결과를 초래할 수 있다.
C. C. 그것은 뇌 손상 후 회복을 방해한다.
D. D. 이는 뇌가 새로운 경로를 형성하는 능력을 감소시킨다.
✅ 正确答案
B. It can result in negative outcomes like chronic pain.
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