Getting our heads around the brain
Activities
Public Broadcasting Service (USA)
Probe the brain – students learn about the brain's motor cortex. Click on 'Probe the brain activity' for an on-screen demonstration showing which parts of the motor cortex control different parts of the body.
(Note: The activity requires Shockwave.)
National Institutes of Health (USA)
The brain: Understanding neurobiology – provides six excellent lesson plans relating to the brain and neurotransmission. A teacher's guide is available.
NASA (USA)
Perception and action projects for classrooms – demonstrates perceptual illusions and behavioural adaptation.
Science NetLinks (USA)
Watch your thoughts! Diagnostic imaging and the brain – introduces brain imaging technologies and the information they provide.
Access Excellence (USA)
Signal transmission in the nervous system – students time how long it takes for a hand squeeze to travel around a circle of people.
Newton's Apple (USA)
Brain – students build a model of a neuron.
Memory – students exercise observation and memory skills.
Science upd8, UK
Love on the brain – students investigate which areas of the brain are active when you are in love. The same areas are deactivated during depression and sadness.
Page updated December 2009.