Outer Brain Structures
These raised ridges on the brain increase surface area for processing.
What are gyri?
This lobe is responsible for decision making, personality, and motor control. (May not be fully developed until mid 20s)
Frontal Love
This structure connects the brain to the spinal cord. (made of three parts)
What is the brain stem?
This structure acts as a relay station for sensory information.
What is the thalamus?
This tough outer layer is called the “tough mother.”
What is the dura mater?
These shallow grooves separate gyri on the brain’s surface.
What are sulci?
This lobe processes visual information.
What is the occipital lobe?
This part of the brain stem controls heart rate and breathing.
What is the medulla oblongata?
This structure maintains homeostasis like body temperature and hunger.
What is the hypothalamus?
This layer has a spider-like appearance.
What is the arachnoid mater?
These deep grooves divide major regions of the brain.
What are fissures?
This lobe processes touch and spatial awareness. (proprioception)
What is the parietal lobe?
This structure acts as a bridge between different parts of the brain.
What is the pons?
This gland controls other endocrine glands in the body.
What is the pituitary gland?
This delicate layer directly covers the brain.
What is the pia mater?
This largest part of the brain is responsible for thinking, memory, and voluntary actions.
What is the cerebrum?
This lobe is important for hearing and memory.
What is the temporal lobe?
This part controls reflexes like turning your head toward a sound.
What is the midbrain?
This gland regulates sleep cycles through melatonin production.
What is the pineal gland?
This space contains cerebrospinal fluid and acts as a shock absorber.
What is the subarachnoid space?
This structure helps coordinate balance, movement, and fine motor control.
What is the cerebellum?
A student can see clearly but cannot interpret what they are seeing. This lobe is likely damaged.
What is the occipital lobe?
This structure protects and nourishes brain tissue and looks like a tree.
What is the arbor vitae?
The innermost layer of the brain which is directly surrounds the brain.
What is the Pia mater?
This is where CSF is primarily located around the brain.
What is the subarachnoid space?