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 indicate how the neural connections in the brain change as a result of a behaviour or cognitive process. Animal research is acceptable.

When describing the study, the relevant area of the brain where neuroplasticity is observed should be identified.

Relevant studies may include, but are not limited to:

• Bremner et al.’s (2008) study on plasticity of the human brain in post-traumatic stress disorder
• Draganski’s (2004) study of neuroplasticity and learning in jugglers
• Luby et al.’s (2012) study of maternal support and hippocampal development
• Maguire et al.’s (2000) study showing structural change in the hippocampi of taxi drivers
• Rosenzweig, Bennett and Diamond’s (1972) study on the role of environmental factors on neuroplasticity.

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

As the question is focused only on the physiological process of neuroplasticity, it is not necessary to focus on a behaviour; studies of cortical mapping are appropriate.

If a candidate describes neuroplasticity without making reference to a relevant study, up to a maximum of [5] should be awarded.

If a candidate only describes an appropriate study without describing neuroplasticity, up to a maximum of [4] should be awarded.

SL:

Most candidates were able to provide good descriptions of neuroplasticity and related concepts. Many candidates clearly understood the concepts of neural networks, long-term potentiation and dendritic branching. Weaker responses briefly described neuroplasticity as the brains ability to adapt or change due to environmental influences, injury or learning a new skill. Weaker responses lacked use of relevant psychological terminology.

The vast majority of candidates used either Maguire or Draganski as their supporting research, however descriptions were often lacking in precision with regards to the findings and conclusions.

HL:

Many candidates wrote strong descriptions of neuroplasticity including the concepts of long-term potentiation, dendritic branching, and neural pruning. Weaker responses provided only a very basic definition referring to the brain's ability to change in response to internal and external stimuli.

Research was well described but often the findings were not clearly stated or lacked precision with regard to the actual changes in the brain.