The concept of neuroplasticity has revolutionized our understanding of the human brain. Historically, scientists believed that the adult brain was structurally fixed, with neural circuits becoming immutable after a critical period in childhood. However, research over the past two decades has demonstrated that the brain retains a remarkable capacity for reorganization throughout life. This plasticity is evident in various contexts, such as learning new skills, recovering from injury, and adapting to sensory deprivation. For instance, studies on individuals who are blind have shown that the visual cortex can be recruited for processing touch or auditory information, a phenomenon known as cross-modal reorganization. Moreover, neuroplastic changes are not limited to cortical areas but also occur in subcortical structures, including the hippocampus, which is vital for memory formation. These findings have profound implications for rehabilitation and education, suggesting that targeted training can harness the brain's adaptive potential. Nevertheless, the extent of plasticity varies with age, with younger brains generally exhibiting greater malleability, and it is constrained by genetic and environmental factors.
❓ According to the passage, which of the following statements is true about neuroplasticity?
A. A) The adult brain is completely fixed and cannot change after childhood.
B. B) Neuroplasticity only occurs in the visual cortex and not in other brain areas.
C. C) The brain can reorganize itself in response to learning, injury, or sensory changes.
D. D) Neuroplasticity is equally strong at all ages and is unaffected by genetics.
✅ 正确答案
C) The brain can reorganize itself in response to learning, injury, or sensory changes.
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