Lesson 1: Nervous System Overview

Nervous System Overview

• The nervous system receives and relays information about internal and external changes, monitoring activities within the body and responding accordingly.

Parts of the Central Nervous System (CNS)

• The brain consists of billions of interconnected neurons and glia, with two main types of matter:
  • Gray matter (40%): comprised of neurons and their supporting cells
  • White matter (60%): comprised of nerve fibers and glial cells

Neurons

• Neurons are specialized cells that carry messages throughout the nervous system
• They are the basic functioning unit of the nervous system

Functions of Neurons

• Sensory function: gathers information from the outside world and inside the body
• Transmits information to the processing area of the brain and spinal cord
• Integrative function: processes information to determine the best response
• Motor function: sends information to muscles, glands, and organs to respond correctly

Cerebrum Functions

Left Cerebral Hemisphere

• Controls the right side of the body
• Associated with:
  • Maths skills
  • Scientific thinking
  • Spoken and written language

Right Cerebral Hemisphere

• Controls the left side of the body
• Associated with:
  • Creativity
  • Imagination
  • Insight
  • Artistic skills
  • Writing skills
  • Musical skills
  • Logical thinking

Brain Divisions

• Forebrain: Telencephalon and Diencephalon
• Midbrain: Mesencephalon
• Two major divisions of the brain: Forebrain and Midbrain

Learn about the nervous system, its functions in relaying information, monitoring internal and external changes, and the parts of the central nervous system such as the brain and neurons.