English Online with Speak Method

ESL Advanced Reading

Read the passage, then answer the questions.

In recent times, scientists have studied the electrical and magnetic activity that happens inside the brain. With EEG, electroencephalography, scientists measure electrical activity in the brain by attaching numerous electrodes to the scalp and using a conductive gel. With MEG, magnetoencephalography, magnetic detectors positioned around the head show magnetic activity. Using test subjects, scientists introduce something new, something as simple as a word. This new thing is called the Event. By observing electrical and magnetic signals, scientists study ERP, Event-Related Potential. For example, they introduce a word to the test subject. They can then see which parts of the brain become active in response to the word. This allows scientists to develop theories about learning that involve places of learning in the brain and brain-activity associated with different kinds of "events."

1. The author's primary purpose is to:

A. describe how the brain learns
B. present a possible method for developing learning techniques
C. describe how scientists study brain acivity and possible uses for this information
D. argue the necessity for studying brain activity with EEG and MEG
E. describe the full meaning of Event Related Potential

2. The author would define Event-Related Potential as:

A. the introduction of a word to a test subject
B. the introduction of a word or other new thing to a test subject
C. the potential outcome of the event
D. the brain activity which results from one event
E. the brain activity expected to result from an event

answers: 1. c, 2. d