Brain Basics

What is the primary purpose of presenting a concrete challenge at the beginning of a learning session?

• To intimidate students
• To engage student interest
• To test prior knowledge
• To fill up time

Answer explanation

Engaging student interest at the beginning of a learning session helps to activate relevant neural networks, making the learning process more effective.

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NGSS.MS-ETS1-1

Name three specialised areas of the brain involved in learning and describe their functions.

• Amygdala, hippocampus, cerebellum
• Frontal lobe, cerebellum, parietal lobe
• Hippocampus, frontal lobe, amygdala
• Occipital lobe, hippocampus, frontal lobe

Answer explanation

Engaging student interest at the beginning of a learning session helps to activate relevant neural networks, making the learning process more effective.The hippocampus is involved in memory formation, the frontal lobe in problem-solving and decision-making, and the amygdala in emotional processing, all crucial for learning.

How might students' individual brains differ from one another in terms of learning?

• Memory capacity
• Neurological connections
• Attention span
• All of the above

Answer explanation

Students’ brains can differ in various aspects such as memory capacity, the strength and number of neurological connections, and attention span, all affecting learning.

How does the hippocampus of taxi drivers change as they learn?

• It shrinks
• It becomes more active
• It grows
• It stays the same

Answer explanation

Studies have shown that the hippocampus can grow in size in taxi drivers as they learn and navigate complex city layouts.

Explain the interaction between the amygdala and learning processes.

• The amygdala hinders learning
• It has no impact on learning
• It enhances emotional learning
• It stores memories

Answer explanation

The amygdala plays a crucial role in emotional learning by processing emotional reactions and influencing the strength of memory formation.

Summarise the findings regarding the location of memories in the brain.

• Stored in the frontal lobe
• Distributed across various regions
• Located in the hippocampus
• Confined to the amygdala

Answer explanation

Research indicates that memories are not stored in one single location but are distributed across various brain regions.

Describe the role of the pre-frontal cortex in attention and problem-solving, and at what age it matures.

• Matures at age 15; controls emotions
• Matures by age 25; involved in executive functions
• Matures at age 30; handles language skills
• Matures at age 20; responsible for sensory processing

Answer explanation

The prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for attention, problem-solving, and other executive functions, matures by around age 25.

Neuroplasticity decreases significantly as we age.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Neuroplasticity, or the brain's ability to change and adapt, continues throughout life, although the rate of change may vary with age.

Which neurotransmitter is primarily associated with feelings of happiness and well-being?

• • Dopamine

• Serotonin

• Acetylcholine

• GABA

Answer explanation

Serotonin is widely known as a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of well-being and happiness.

Which of the following are considered higher cognitive functions? (Select all that apply)

• • Breathing

• • Problem Solving

• • Language Comprehension

• • Walking

Answer explanation

Problem solving and language comprehension are higher cognitive functions, whereas breathing and walking are primarily controlled by lower brain centers.