Text 1: Neuroscientist Dr. Sarah Kim explains brain plasticity. "Neural connections change in response to experience," Kim writes. "Learning physically rewires the brain. Education literally shapes cognitive architecture."
Text 2: Developmental psychologist Dr. Paul Black notes critical periods. "Plasticity diminishes with age," Black observes. "Some capacities have windows for optimal development. Later learning differs qualitatively from early development."
How does Black's observation qualify Kim's plasticity claims?
By denying any neural change occurs
By noting that plasticity varies across developmental stages
By arguing education has no brain effects
By claiming critical periods don't exist
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the correct answer. Kim emphasizes plasticity generally. Black adds that "plasticity diminishes"—it's not constant across life. Age affects rewiring capacity.
- Evidence: Black: "windows for optimal development."
- Reasoning: Kim's general claim needs temporal qualification.
- Conclusion: Plasticity varies developmentally.
Choice A is incorrect because Black accepts neural change. Choice C is incorrect because Black discusses development. Choice D is incorrect because Black introduces critical periods.