The brain (biology only)

The brain controls complex behaviour. It is made of billions of interconnected neurones and has different regions that carry out different functions.

Students should be able to identify the cerebral cortex, cerebellum and medulla on a diagram of the brain, and describe their functions.

(HT only) Students should be able to explain some of the difficulties of investigating brain function and treating brain damage and disease.

(HT only) Neuroscientists have been able to map the regions of the brain to particular functions by studying patients with brain damage, electrically stimulating different parts of the brain and using MRI scanning techniques. The complexity and delicacy of the brain makes investigating and treating brain disorders very difficult.

(HT only) WS 1.5 Evaluate the benefits and risks of procedures carried out on the brain and nervous system.