Neurons & Their Structure

Drawing and labelling a neuron

What is a neuron?

A specialised cell that transmits electrical messages throughout the nervous system

What are the three main parts of a neuron?

Cell body, dendrites, axon

What is the function of the cell body?

Contains the nucleus and controls the activities of the neuron

What is the function of dendrites?

Receive messages from other neurons and carry them towards the cell body

What is the function of the axon?

Carries nerve impulses away from the cell body

What is the function of the myelin sheath?

Protects the axon and speeds up electrical messages

What is the function of axon terminals?

Release neurotransmitters to pass messages to the next neuron

What is the nucleus’ role in a neuron?

Controls the cell

What should be labelled on a neuron diagram?

Dendrites, cell body, nucleus, axon, myelin sheath, axon terminals