Edexcel A Level (IAL) Biology -8.14 Human Brain Structures & Functions- Study Notes- New Syllabus

Parts of the Human Brain

🌱 Introduction

The human brain is divided into several specialised regions. Each part carries out specific functions that support movement, memory, behaviour, coordination and overall homeostasis.

1. Cerebral Hemispheres

📍 Location

• Largest and uppermost region of the brain.
• Split into left and right hemispheres.
• Outer surface is the cerebral cortex.

🎯 Main Functions

• Higher thinking such as reasoning and problem solving.
• Voluntary movement through the motor cortex.
• Sensory perception including touch, vision, smell, taste and hearing.
• Memory formation, learning and shaping personality.
• Speech and language areas such as Broca’s and Wernicke’s regions.

2. Hypothalamus

📍 Location

• Tiny region beneath the thalamus.
• Located just above the pituitary gland.

🎯 Main Functions

• Acts as the main homeostasis control centre.
• Monitors temperature, water content, ion concentration and blood glucose.
• Contains osmoreceptors for maintaining water balance.
• Controls the autonomic nervous system.
• Produces releasing hormones that guide pituitary activity.

3. Pituitary Gland

📍 Location

• Small, pea-shaped gland located below the hypothalamus.
• Connected by the infundibulum.

🎯 Main Functions

• Known as the master gland.
• Releases hormones that regulate other endocrine glands.
• Anterior pituitary secretes FSH, LH, ACTH, TSH, GH and prolactin.
• Posterior pituitary releases ADH and oxytocin (made in the hypothalamus).
• Controls growth, metabolism, reproduction and water balance.

4. Cerebellum

📍 Location

• Situated at the back of the brain.
• Lies beneath the cerebral hemispheres.
• Characterised by a highly folded surface.

🎯 Main Functions

• Maintains posture and balance.
• Coordinates fine motor movements.
• Ensures smooth and accurate movement patterns.
• Stores motor memory such as cycling or playing instruments.

5. Medulla Oblongata

📍 Location

• Located at the base of the brainstem.
• Connects directly to the spinal cord.

🎯 Main Functions

• Controls essential involuntary reflexes.
• Regulates breathing, heart rate and blood pressure.
• Coordinates reflex actions such as swallowing and coughing.
• Critical for survival as it manages autonomic processes.