Language

• language ability lies in the left hemisphere

• receives input from:

  • primary visual cortex (sight)

  • primary auditory cortex (sound)

• Angular gyrus of parietal-temporal-occipital association cortex: integrates sensory input

• Wernicke’s area: plans content of spoken words

• Broca’s area: programs sound pattern of speech

• Primary motor cortex: commands facial and tongue muscles to speak words

Language Disorders

• Aphasias

  • damage specific to cortical areas such as Wernicke’s and Broca’s area

• Speed impediments

  • defect in mechanical aspects of speech

• Dyslexia

  • misinterpretation of words

  • connection between cortical visual and language areas of the cortex is abnormal