Major Concepts and Behavioral Objectives

CONCEPT I: The Body's Control Systems

The brain and nervous system, along with the endocrine system, integrate and regulate all body signals and responses. Information is conveyed throughout the nervous system's network of interconnected nerve cells, called neurons, in electrochemical form. Messages are also conveyed within the body by the endocrine system. Endocrine glands secrete into the bloodstream hormones that regulate and influence our behavior.

1. Describe the organization of the nervous system.

2. Describe the parts and the function of the neuron, and explain how different types of neurons function in a reflex arc.

3. Explain how neural impulses are transmitted both within a single neuron and from one neuron to another.

4. Describe the operation of the endocrine system.

5. List the major endocrine glands and the effects each has on the body.

CONCEPT II: The Brain

The brain is a complex organ.

6. Discuss the evolution of the human brain.

7. Describe how brains grow, commenting on the influence of experience.

8. Discuss the various methods used in studying the relationships between the brain and behavior, and explain how and why each is performed.

9. List the divisions and parts of the brain discussed in the text, identify their locations, and describe their functions.

10. Discuss the principles of localization of function and lateralized function, and describe the research which pertains to each.

11. Describe the effects of split-brain surgery, and distinguish between the functions of the left and right hemispheres.

12. Discuss the various ways in which brain disorders are treated, including drug therapy, tissue implants, and relearning therapies.