Week 5 Brain Development Flashcards
What are neurons?
nerve cells that store and transmit information
What are neurotransmitters?
Chemicals sent across synapses by neurons to send messages to one another
What is synaptic pruning?
Neurons that are seldom stimulated soon lose their synapses, returning those neurons not needed at the moment to an uncommitted state so they can support future development.
What is myelination?
The coating of neural fibers with an insulating fatty sheath (myelin) that improves the efficiency of message transfer.
What is lateralization?
specialization of the brain hemispheres
What is brain plasticity?
the high capacity for learning in the many areas of the brain not yet committed to specific functions.
What is experience expectant brain growth?
the young brain’s rapidly developing organization, which depends on ordinary experiences – opportunities to explore the environment, interact with people, and hear language and other sounds.
What is experience dependent brain growth?
the additional growth and refinement of established brain structures as a result of specific learning experiences that vary widely across individuals and cultures.
What is the dominant cerebral hemisphere?
Some tasks are done mostly by the left hemisphere, others by the right hemisphere. Through early childhood, the left has more rapid growth. Right hemisphere growth remains more steady, with a spurt between ages 8-10
What is the cerebellum?
a brain structure at the rear and base of the brain that aids in balance and control of body movement.
What is the reticular formation?
a structure in the brain stem that maintains alertness and consciousness, generates synapses and myelinates throughout early childhood and into adolescence.
What is the hippocampus?
an inner brain structure that plays a vital role in memory and in images of space that help us find our way.
What is the amygdala?
an inner brain structure that plays a central role in processing of novelty and emotional information.
What is the corpus callosum?
a large bundle of fibers connecting the two central hemispheres that is responsible for brain integration and smoothness of movement
What is white matter?
a type of brain tissue consisting largely of myelinated nerve fibers; rises steadily throughout childhood and adolescence
