Unit 6: The Nervous System

Halfway through the semester and we have finally made it to the nervous system! Of all the organ systems in the body, none is as fascinating or mysterious as the brain. Despite all the recent advances in the cognitive and neurosciences, there is still much about the human brain that we do not know. In this unit we will examine the basic anatomy of the brain and the functions of the different components of the brain. We will also study how action potentials are generated and propagated to communicate with other neurons found throughout the body.

Students will be assessed with two tests in this unit; one for the physiology and pathology of the brain and one for anatomy of the brain. Students will also be expected to complete a dissection of the sheep brain and a lab practical exam of the anatomy of the sheep brain.

North Carolina Standard Course of Study Essential Standards

Goal 10: To understand the structure, function and pathology of the nervous system.

10.1 The student will be able to list the major functions of the nervous system including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
10.2 The student will be able to identify through diagram, microscope image, model or dissection, the major structural features of the brain and spinal cord.
10.3 The student will demonstrate an understanding of the cellular aspects of the nervous system, including its growth, development, and how impulses are sent through a neuron.
10.4 The student will be able to identify the structure and functions of the various types of glial cells and neurons.
10.5 The student will be able to map or match the regions of the brain and brain stem to the function the region controls.
10.6 The student will understand the roles of the central, peripheral, somatic, and autonomic divisions of the nervous system, and how they interact.
10.7 The student will be able to describe the higher order functions of the nervous system.
10.8 The student will be able to identify the structure and function of sensory organs including the eye, ear, etc.
10.9 The student will show an understanding of the effects of hereditary and environmental factors, as well as, aging on the nervous system.
10.10 The student will be able to identify the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of major diseases of the nervous system.