The concept of 'neuroplasticity' has revolutionized our understanding of the human brain. Historically, it was believed that the brain's structure was fixed after a critical period in childhood. However, recent research demonstrates that the brain remains capable of substantial reorganization throughout adulthood. This plasticity is not merely a passive response to injury but is actively engaged during learning and memory formation. For instance, studies on London taxi drivers have shown that navigating complex city streets leads to a measurable increase in the volume of the hippocampus, a region crucial for spatial memory. Such findings suggest that the brain's adaptability is a fundamental mechanism for acquiring new skills, but also imply that maladaptive plasticity could contribute to chronic pain or phantom limb sensations. Therefore, while neuroplasticity offers hope for rehabilitation after stroke or trauma, its double-edged nature necessitates careful therapeutic interventions.
❓ According to the passage, which of the following statements accurately reflects the concept of neuroplasticity?
A. A) The brain's structure is completely fixed after childhood and cannot change in adulthood.
B. B) Neuroplasticity only occurs as a response to brain injury, not during normal learning.
C. C) The brain can reorganize itself, but this ability is limited to early development.
D. D) The brain's adaptability is involved in both beneficial processes like learning and potentially harmful ones like chronic pain.
✅ 正确答案
D) The brain's adaptability is involved in both beneficial processes like learning and potentially harmful ones 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