Curiosity

High school (ages 12+)
Thinking & Learning

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/curiosity

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the cognitive function?A drive to seek novel information and explore the unknown
2. What is the neurochemical basis?Involves dopamine release, enhancing learning and reward pathways
3. Why do curious people help humans survive?Curious people look for new food, spot dangers, and find clever ways to solve problems, which helps them and their families stay safe and thrive.
4. How does curiosity make our brains feel happy?When we feel curious, our brain releases dopamine, a chemical that makes us feel good and helps us remember what we learn.

Cognitive Trait: A characteristic or quality of the mind that influences thinking and behavior.
Neurobiological: Relating to the biology of the nervous system, especially its structure and function.
Information Gap: A state of lacking knowledge or information, which motivates a desire to learn.