Describe the structure and functions of the human brain with a labelled diagram.

1. 1 · Open in one line. The brain is the control centre of the body. It lies in the cranium and has three parts: forebrain, midbrain and hindbrain.
2. 2 · Draw the L.S. of the brain. [Diagram: cerebrum with gyri and sulci, corpus callosum, thalamus, hypothalamus, pituitary, midbrain, cerebellum, pons, medulla oblongata, spinal cord]
3. 3 · Forebrain.
   • Cerebrum: two hemispheres joined by the corpus callosum; thinking, memory, voluntary actions.
   • Thalamus: relay centre.
   • Hypothalamus: temperature, hunger, thirst; controls the pituitary.
4. 4 · Midbrain. Corpora quadrigemina (four round bodies) control reflexes of sight and hearing.
5. 5 · Hindbrain.
   • Cerebellum: balance and posture.
   • Pons: relay and breathing.
   • Medulla oblongata: heartbeat, breathing, swallowing, vomiting.
6. 6 · Protection. Cranium, three meninges (duramater, arachnoid membrane, piamater) and cerebrospinal fluid.
7. 7 · Link to daily life. A helmet protects the brain in a crash; alcohol upsets the cerebellum, so drunk riders lose balance.
8. 8 · Close. Each part has its own job, and together they control the whole body.

Scoring tip: After the diagram, write the parts in a table (region, part, function). It is quick to write and easy to mark.