Lesson 4: The Brain

Question 1

What is the function of the “cerebral cortex?”

Answer 1

• This part of the brain is responsible for:
• Language
• Memory
• Consciousness

Question 2

What is the function of the “cerebellum?”

Answer 2

• Controls balance and co- ordinates our movements.

Question 3

What is the function of the “medulla?”

Answer 3

• Medulla controls our heart rate/ breathing rate.

Question 4

Overall, what does the brain control?

Answer 4

• The brain controls complex behaviour.

Question 5

What is the brain made of?

Answer 5

• The brain is made of billions of interconnected neurones.

Question 6

Why is it difficult to investigate brain function (ie. what different parts of the brain do) and treat brain damage and disease?

Students must be able to….

Answer 6

1.) Brain is protected by the skull (so very tricky to access.)
2.) Structures of brain are very complex (hard to see which parts of the brain carry out specific functions.)
3.) The brain is extremely delicate and easy to damage.

Question 7

What are the 3 ways scientists will investigate the brain?

Answer 7

1.) Studying patients with brain damage.
2.) Electrically stimulating the brain.
3.) MRI scans.

Question 8

How does electrically stimulating the brain allow scientists to investigate the brain?

Answer 8

• Observe the effect stimulating different parts of the brain has on a person.
• It’s possible to get an idea of what the different parts do from this.

Question 9

How can we use MRI scanning to investigate more on the brain?

Answer 9

• Scientists will see which parts of the brain are active during particular activities (ie. when listening to music/ trying to recall a memory. )

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