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IDIOM
If someone wants to "pick your brain," they'll probably _____.
a. give you a brain scan
b. look at your test scores
c. ask you questions
A. Answer the questions about Your Amazing Brain.
1. Purpose What is the purpose of the article?
a. to describe how incredible the brain is
b. to discuss the latest theories about the brain
c. to show how little we know about the brain
2. Detail Which of the following is true about motor neurons?
a. They send messages faster than sensory neurons.
b. They send information to your brain.
c. They send information at nearly 320 kilometers per hour.
3. Detail The processing power of your brain allows you to _____ in an emergency situation.
a. react quickly
b. remain calm
c. be creative
4. Detail Each new memory or skill you gain creates new _____.
a. motor neurons
b. sensory neurons
c. neural pathways
5. Inference If you were stuck on a homework problem, the author might suggest _____.
a. playing tennis
b. taking a deep breath
c. doing a number puzzle
B. Complete the summary. Use the words in the box. One word is extra.
| structure muscles exercise brain neurons chemicals controls |
The brain is an amazing machine that (1) _____ everything in the body. It contains billions of (2) _____ that can send information quickly. When your (3) _____ senses an emergency or needs your body to do something, it tells your (4) _____ to move. The brain can change its (5) _____ every time you learn or have a new thought. After you (6) _____, it is easier for your brain to learn.
C. CRITICAL THINKING Talk with a partner. Do you think there are differences between male and female brains? What do you think is different?
