Brain structure and functioning (AO1)

Question 1

What is the structure and function of the brain?

Answer 1

Structure - divided into two near-symmetrical hemispheres connected by the corpus callosum

Function - provides conscious awareness and where decision making takes place

Question 2

Define “lateralisation” and “localisation” in context of the brain.

Answer 2

Lateralisation - the hemispheres have different functions despite being structurally identical

Localisation - certain brain areas control specific behaviours and functions within each hemisphere

Question 3

What are the 6 lobes of the brain?

Answer 3

Frontal Lobe

Parietal Lobe

Occipital Lobe

Cerebellum

Temporal Lobe

Limbic Lobe/System

Question 4

What are the 2 primary structures of the limbic system and what do they do? (3 points)

Answer 4

Primary structures - amygdala and hippocampus

Hippocampus - essential in formation of new memories based on past experiences

Amygdala - recognises a threat for the ‘fight or flight’ response and emotions

Question 5

What are the respective functions of the other 5 lobes of the brain?

Answer 5

Frontal - higher order processing, decision making

Parietal - orientation, movement, sensation

Occipital - visual processing

Temporal - auditory processing

Cerebellum - controls fine motor coordination and balance

Question 6

What are the 5 other parts of the brain?

Answer 6

Brainstem

Cerebrum/cerebral cortex

Corpus callosum - connects left and right hemispheres of the brain

Hypothalamus

Pre-frontal cortex

Question 7

What are the 3 components of the brainstem and their functions?

Answer 7

Medulla oblongata - regulates functions of the autonomic nervous system like cardiac function, vasodilation and reflexes like vomiting

Pons - regulates breathing and REM sleep

Mid-brain - motor movement

Question 8

Describe the cerebrum/cerebral cortex (2 points) and give its function (1 point).

Answer 8

Outermost layered structure of the brain

Separated by gyri (ridges) and sulcus (grooves/lines)

Controls higher brain functions like information processing

Question 9

What is the hypothalamus and what does it do? (2 points)

Answer 9

A gland which maintains a constant internal environment

Detects stimuli and releases hormones to the pituitary gland

Question 10

Describe the pre-frontal cortex and give its function (3 points).

Answer 10

Front part of the frontal lobe

Moderates social behaviour - regulating amygdala activity which can lead to stress and aggressive behaviours

Signals to the amygdala whether the alarm is justified