Parts of the brain and their functions

The outermost layer of the cerebral hemisphere which is composed of gray matter. Cortices are asymmetrical. Both hemispheres are able to analyze sensory data, perform memory functions, learn new information, form thoughts and make decisions.

Sequential Analysis: systematic, logical interpretation of information. Interpretation and production of symbolic information:language, mathematics, abstraction and reasoning. Memory stored in a language format.

Holistic Functioning: processing multi-sensory input simultaneously to provide "holistic" picture of one's environment. Visual spatial skills. Holistic functions such as dancing and gymnastics are coordinated by the right hemisphere. Memory is stored in auditory, visual and spatial modalities.

communication between the two hemispheres

Cognition and memory. Prefrontal area: The ability to concentrate and attend, elaboration of thought. The "Gatekeeper"; (judgment, inhibition). Personality and emotional traits. Motor Cortex (Brodman's): voluntary motor activity. Premotor Cortex: storage of motor patterns and voluntary activities. Language: motor speech

processing of sensory input. Body orientation (proprioception)

Primary visual reception and association

Auditory reception and interpretation, expressed behavior, receptive speech, information retrieval

olfactory path ways, biologic rhythms, hypothalamus

Subcortical gray matter nuclei. Processing link between thalamus and motor cortex. Initiation and direction of voluntary movement. Balance (inhibitory), Postural reflexes. Automatic movement

neural centers in the limbic system linked to emotion

a structure in the limbic system linked to memory

relays messages between lower brain centers and cerebral cortex

controls maintenance functions such as eating; helps govern endocrine system; linked to emotion and reward

master endocrine gland

helps control arousal

controls heartbeat and breathing

pathway for neural fibers traveling to and from the brain; controls simple relfexes

coordinates voluntary movement and balance

relays information between the cerebrum and the cerebellum, controls arousal and regulates respiration