The concept of 'neuroplasticity' has revolutionized our understanding of the human brain. Historically, scientists believed that the adult brain was largely fixed, with neural pathways becoming rigid after a critical period in childhood. However, recent research has demonstrated that the brain retains a remarkable ability to reorganize itself throughout life, adapting to new experiences, learning, and even injury. This plasticity occurs at multiple levels, from synaptic connections between neurons to larger-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. While this adaptability is generally beneficial, it also has a downside: maladaptive plasticity can contribute to chronic pain or phantom limb sensations. Understanding the mechanisms that govern neuroplasticity is crucial for developing therapeutic interventions for neurological conditions such as stroke or traumatic brain injury, where promoting beneficial reorganization could improve recovery outcomes.
❓ According to the passage, which of the following is true about neuroplasticity?
A. A) It only occurs in the visual cortex of blind individuals.
B. B) It is limited to early childhood development.
C. C) It can have both positive and negative effects on brain function.
D. D) It prevents the brain from recovering after injury.
✅ 正确答案
C) It can have both positive and negative effects on brain function.
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