Q: Why do we need to learn about the brain?

A: A basic knowledge about how the human

brain functions will allow us to better
understand the stages of human
development and the theories which
describe them.
` The brain develops according to the quantity and
quality of the stimuli it receives.

` There are eight neural pathways: touch, sight, sound,

taste, smell, temperature, pain and positioning.

` Daily exercise increases nerve connections in the

brain. This makes it easier for children to learn.

` The brain develops most strongly when all pathways

are being stimulated. (A child read to on her parents lap
learns more than language – she is developing emotional
responses, such as the ability to trust and a sense of safety).
` Brain development is hampered when
children are deprived, neglected, poorly fed
or abused.

` Negative environments in the early years can

impact ones ability to learn, provide for ones
self, form relationships, be healthy and
behave in socially acceptable ways.
` As a result of such findings…
x information on how to parent well is now available to
families.

` Researchers have also discovered…

x that the presence of just one caring committed adult in
early childhood and the adolescent years can produce
resiliency in adulthood.

= the ability to overcome problems and manage life effectively.

` The human brain is connected via the
nervous system to every part of the body.
` Medulla oblongata –controls vital processes of
heart rate, respiration, blood pressure, and
swallowing
` Pons controls of vital processes of respiration,
cardiovascular functions, coordination of eye
movements and balance
` Hypothalamus – links the nervous system to the
endocrine system
` Pituitary Gland - a gland that secretes 8
regulatory hormones
` Thalamus –relay station between the senses and
the cortex
` Cerebral Cortex – the outer layer of the brain consisting of
the parietal, occipital, frontal and temporal lobes
◦ Parietal Lobe - the middle lobe of each cerebral hemisphere
(located at the upper rear of the head); it contains important
sensory centers.
◦ Occipital lobe – helps process visual information.
◦ Temporal lobe – processes hearing, memory and language
functions.
◦ Frontal lobe – helps control voluntary movement, emotions,
reasoning, judgment, planning and goal setting
` Cerebellum – governs movement.
` Spinal Cord - a thick bundle of nerve fibers that runs from
the base of the brain to the hip area, running through the
spine (vertebrae).
` Hippocampus – spatial navigation and the consolidation of
short term to long term memory.
` Corpus Collosum – communication between brain
hemispheres.
` Using the textbook (page 218) and the
following diagram, label the brain on the back
of your notes (you will have to add extra
arrows!)