事实：人类记忆力的局限-The Limit of the Human Memory

Pre-Listening Vocabulary

 

limit: the highest amount possible

aid: something that helps you do something

chunk¹: a group of similar things

revise: to change or adapt

 

The Limit of the Human Memory

According to recent studies, the human mind has a memory limit of about 3 to 4 items. This means that without doing any memory tricks, the average human can only remember 3 to 4 things at a time. These things may include numbers, names, or tasks. This short-term memory is also called the working memory. Without some form of memory aid, these 3 to 4 things will only remain in a person’s memory for about twenty seconds. Memory aids include repeating something over and over, placing items into groups or chunks², or writing things down. This is a revised theory about memory. Previously³, scientists believed that the average human mind could remember about five to seven things at a time. Of course, some individuals have a stronger working memory than others. A stronger working memory is often related to a stronger ability to learn and problem solve.

 

 

1 chunk   

n.厚片，大块，相当大的部分（数量）

参考例句：

• They had to be careful of floating chunks of ice.他们必须当心大块浮冰。
• The company owns a chunk of farmland near Gatwick Airport.该公司拥有盖特威克机场周边的大片农田。

2 chunks   

厚厚的一块( chunk的名词复数 )； （某物）相当大的数量或部分

参考例句：

• a tin of pineapple chunks 一罐菠萝块
• Those chunks of meat are rather large—could you chop them up a bIt'smaller? 这些肉块相当大，还能再切小一点吗？

3 previously   

adv.以前，先前（地）

参考例句：

• The bicycle tyre blew out at a previously damaged point.自行车胎在以前损坏过的地方又爆开了。
• Let me digress for a moment and explain what had happened previously.让我岔开一会儿，解释原先发生了什么。