Early Brain Development

A collection of vocabulary flashcards focused on early brain development, including definitions of key terms and concepts.

Brain Stem

The oldest part of the brain, connects to the spinal cord, and is responsible for motor and sensory functions and basic life functions like heartbeat and breathing.

Cerebellum

Also known as the 'little brain,' it coordinates movement and integrates sensory information with muscle activity.

Thalamus

A hub in each brain hemisphere that receives and sends sensory information to appropriate areas of the brain.

Cortex

The area of the brain where thinking and processing occurs, divided into two halves.

Cognition

The mental action or process of acquiring knowledge and understanding through thought, experience, and the senses.

Autonomic Functions

Functions of the nervous system that are automatic and not under conscious control, like heartbeat and digestion.

Hindbrain

The part of the brain that includes the cerebellum, pons, and medulla, responsible for basic life functions.

Midbrain

The central part of the brain that regulates functions such as vision and hearing.

Forebrain

The front part of the brain that includes the cortex and is involved in higher-order functions.

Nature vs. Nurture

The debate over whether a person's development is determined by genetics (nature) or by environment and experiences (nurture).

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

A condition resulting from alcohol exposure during pregnancy, leading to physical, behavioral, and learning problems in the child.

Spinal Cord

A long, thin bundle of nerves that runs from the brain down the back, transmitting signals between the brain and the body.

High-Performance Learning

Learning that promotes cognitive abilities and skills, often linked to brain development.

Sensory Processing

The way the brain receives and interprets information from the senses.

Neuroplasticity

The ability of the brain to change and adapt in response to experience, which primarily occurs during early development.

Prenatal Development

The development of an embryo and fetus during pregnancy, impacting brain structure and function.

Cerebral Hemisphere

One of the two halves of the brain, responsible for higher functions like thought and action.

Motor Area

The area of the cortex that is involved in controlling voluntary movements.

Occipital Lobe

Part of the brain located at the back of the head that is primarily responsible for visual processing.

Frontal Cortex

The part of the cortex involved in reasoning, planning, problem-solving, and emotions.

Developmental Stages

Key phases in brain and body development during pregnancy, such as 25, 35, 40 days, and 9 months.

Research Support

Evidence or studies that strengthen an argument regarding factors influencing brain development.

Critical Periods

Specific times during development when the brain is especially sensitive to environmental stimuli.

Neonates

Newborn babies, typically referred to within the context of brain development and care.

Hearing Voices

Referring to external auditory perception that may influence brain structure when encountered in the womb.

Infection

The process where harmful organisms invade the body, which can affect fetal brain development.

Smoking

The act of inhaling and exhaling the smoke of tobacco, shown to possess effects on fetal brain development.

Cognitive Development

The progression of thinking, learning, and memory over time, particularly in early childhood.

Basic Life Functions

Essential functions necessary for survival such as heart rate, breathing, and digestion.

Socialization

The process of internalizing the norms, values, and information needed for participation in society.

Visual Area of the Brain

Region dedicated to processing visual information received from the eyes.

Peer Assessment

A process where students evaluate each other’s work or performance based on set criteria.

Experiences in the Womb

Various circumstances and conditions that a fetus is exposed to during pregnancy, which can influence brain development.

Self Regulation

The ability to monitor and control one's own emotional state and behavior.

Mark Scheme

A set of guidelines for grading, used to assess the quality of responses in an exam.

Poster Project

An assignment requiring the creation of a visual display to illustrate knowledge of early brain development.

Key Terms

Important concepts and vocabulary essential for understanding the subject matter.