The Brain (Edexcel GCSE Biology)

The Brain

• Our central nervous system includes the brain alongside the spinal cord

  • The spinal cord extends down from the base of the brain and is formed from a bundle of neurones which branch off to different parts of the body

  • The brain is made of billions of interconnected neurones and is responsible for controlling complex behaviours

• Scientists have discovered that different regions of the brain seem to be responsible for controlling different functions, these regions include:

  • The cerebral cortex or cerebrum: this is the outer layer of the brain which is divided into two hemispheres (left and right). It’s highly folded and is responsible for higher-order processes such as intelligence, memory, consciousness and personality

  • The cerebellum: this is underneath the cerebral cortex and is responsible for balance, muscle coordination and movement

  • The medulla oblongata: this region controls unconscious activities such as heart rate and breathing

The brain is made from billions of interconnected neurones which are organised into regions