AP Bio Study Guide

Big Idea 3.E

What are the functions of the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brainstem?

Cerebrum — learning, emotion, memory, perception. Divided into right and left hemispheres, where left side of brain receives information from and controls the right side and vice versa.

Cerebellum — coordinates movement and balance, helms in learning and remembering motor skills. Receives sensory information about position of joints and muscles. Monitors motor commands from the cerebrum and carries out these commands.

Brainstem — controls several automatic functions, such as breathing, heart and blood vessel activity, swallowing, and digestion. Receives and integrates several types of sensory information and sends it on. Transfers information between the PNS (see below) and other parts of the brain.

The central nervous system (CNS) consists of the brain and spinal cord. The peripheral nervous system (PNS) consists of all nerves outside of the CNS.