BBB - The Anatomy of the Brain Lesson

Learning Target:

  • Describe the nervous system and its subdivisions and functions in the brain.

AP psychology course and exam description, effective fall 2020. (n.d.). https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/ap-psychology-course-and-exam-description.pdf

The Anatomy of the Brain

Complete the activity below to learn about the parts of the brain and their functions.

Understanding the structure and functions of the brain is one of the most important aspects of understanding psychology. The brain is an evolutionary and complex structure and, as you work through the module, I think you will be amazed at all it truly does. Fortunately, for AP Psychology it is not necessary to get too complex. What you will need to know for this course is the general function and location of various parts of the brain. Okay, are you ready to be amazed? Let's get started with breaking down the brain into three areas: the hindbrain, midbrain, and forebrain.

Hindbrain

Image showing the different parts of the brain: The Hindbrain (medulla oblongata, pons, and the cerebellum); the Midbrain; the Forebrain (cerebrum); and the spinal cord. The hindbrain is the "oldest" part of our brain and is located near the rear base of the skull. It connects to the spine and is NOT responsible for cognition but for survival responses. Our instincts such as breathing, digestion, arousal, and heart rate are all controlled by the hindbrain. The hindbrain connects the spinal cord with the rest of the brain and sensory and motor pathways pass through the hindbrain. Sensory information we receive from our senses crosses the corpus callosum and carries messages to the other side of the brain. Three structures make up the hindbrain: the medulla oblongata, pons, and cerebellum.

1. Medulla Oblongata

The medulla oblongata is a long stretch of cords located just above the spinal cord in charge of automatic functions and vital reflexes. Blood pressure, breathing, heart rate, digestion, sneezing, coughing, and vomiting are all controlled by the medulla oblongata. Damage to the medulla can result in death.

2. Pons

The pons is the uppermost level of the hindbrain located just above the medulla. It acts as a bridge connecting the hindbrain with the midbrain and forebrain. Information from higher brain regions travels to the cerebellum through the pons. It is involved in body movements, sensations, facial expressions, and REM sleep.

3. Cerebellum

The cerebellum or "little brain" is located at the bottom or rear of our brain and looks like a little version of the brain. It is responsible for controlling balance, muscle tone, coordinated muscle movements, and fine motor skills. If you damage the cerebellum the result can be jerky movements.

Midbrain

The midbrain makes up most of the brain stem and helps us coordinate sensory information with simple movements. It contains centers that process auditory, visual, and sensory information. The midbrain contains a structure called reticular formation which contains specialized neurons that project information from higher brain regions to the spine. What is important to know and remember about reticular formation is that it regulates attention, sleep, and arousal. Feelings of tiredness and wakefulness are controlled by the reticular formation. 

 

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