Answer Explanation

[PASSAGE] "For much of the twentieth century, the prevailing scientific consensus was that the adult brain was a static, fixed organ. It was widely believed that after a critical period in early childhood, the brain’s structure was largely immutable, and that any damaged neurons were lost forever." This means that for a long time, scientists thought the adult brain was unchanging and couldn't be altered after early childhood, and damaged parts couldn't recover. [WHY CORRECT] Option 2 is correct because the passage explicitly states the traditional view was that the adult brain was a "static, fixed organ" and its structure was "largely immutable" after early childhood. This directly supports the idea that its structure and functions were unchangeable after childhood. [TRAPS] Option 1 is wrong because it describes neuroplasticity, the modern view, which directly contradicts the traditional "static, fixed" view. Option 3 is wrong because the traditional view believed "any damaged neurons were lost forever," which means it could NOT easily recover. Option 4 is not mentioned as a traditional view in relation to its unchangeability. [TIP] When answering detail questions, scan the passage for keywords from the question and answer choices. Once located, read the surrounding sentences carefully to ensure the information directly supports the chosen answer and isn't part of a contrasting idea expressed in the passage.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect

• Option A (“It was capable of forming new connections throughout life.”) confuses two separate points from the text.
• Option C (“It could easily recover from any type of injury.”) swaps the cause and effect described in the passage.
• Option D (“Its primary function was related to memory and learning.”) attaches the right fact to the wrong subject.

Key Language in Context

The language describing Neuroscience rewards close reading: notice contrast markers, hedging, and emphasis, since TOEFL detail items hinge on nuance rather than matching keywords.

Skill Takeaway

Locate the exact supporting line in the text instead of relying on memory.