Final Exam: Lateralization and Language Flashcards
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.
