Final Exam: Lateralization and Language Flashcards
(16 cards)
Lateralization
The specialization of functions in the left and right hemispheres of the brain.
Dominant Functions of the Left Hemisphere
Language, logic, math, and sequential processing; controls right side of the body.
Dominant Functions of the Right Hemisphere
Spatial abilities, facial recognition, music, and holistic processing; controls left side of the body.
The Wada Test
A procedure where one hemisphere is temporarily anesthetized to test language and memory functions.
Corpus Callosum
A large bundle of nerve fibers that connects the left and right hemispheres and allows communication between them.
Roger Sperry’s Split-Brain Experiments
Classic studies with split-brain cats showing that each hemisphere can learn independently when the corpus callosum and optic chiasm are severed.
Corpus Callosotomy
A surgical procedure that cuts the corpus callosum to reduce severe epilepsy.
“Split-Brain” Phenomena
Behaviors seen in people with a severed corpus callosum, where the hemispheres can’t communicate normally.
The Z Lens
A contact lens device used in split-brain research to restrict visual input to one hemisphere at a time.
Broca’s Area
A brain region in the left frontal lobe involved in speech production.
Broca’s Aphasia
A speech disorder with difficulty producing language; speech is slow and effortful but comprehension is mostly preserved.
Wernicke’s Area
A region in the left temporal lobe involved in understanding language.
Wernicke’s Aphasia
A language disorder with fluent but nonsensical speech and poor comprehension.
Arcuate Fasciculus
A bundle of nerve fibers that connects Broca’s and Wernicke’s areas.
Conduction Aphasia
A disorder caused by damage to the arcuate fasciculus; marked by trouble repeating words despite good comprehension and speech.
Angular Gyrus
A brain region involved in reading and converting visual input into language.
