Describe neuroplasticity, with reference to one relevant study.

Refer to the paper 1 section A markbands when awarding marks. These can be found under the “Your tests” tab > supplemental materials.

The command term “describe” requires candidates to give a detailed account of neuroplasticity with reference to one relevant study. Descriptions of neuroplasticity may show conceptual understanding of long-term potentiation, neurogenesis and/or synaptic pruning.

Responses should describe neuroplasticity indicating how the neural connections in the brain change with regard to a specific behaviour or cognitive process. Animal research is acceptable.

Relevant studies could include but are not limited to:

• Rosenzweig, Bennett and Diamond’s (1972) study on the role of environmental factors on neuroplasticity
• Bremner et al.’s (2008) study on plasticity of the human brain in post-traumatic stress disorder
• Dragansky’s (2004) study of neuroplasticity in jugglers
• Maguire et al.’s (2000) study on navigation (related structural change in the hippocampi of taxi drivers)
• Tierney et al.’s (2001) study using PET scans to investigate language development.

If a candidate describes more than one study related to neuroplasticity, credit should be given only to the first study.

If a candidate describes a relevant study, but neuroplasticity is not addressed, apply the markbands up to a maximum of [4].

If a candidate describes neuroplasticity but does not describe an appropriate study, apply the markbands up to a maximum of [5].