11 mark
Which of the following is a small structure at the base of the brain that coordinates movement and balance?
Shade one box.
Brain stem
Cerebellum
Cortex
Thalamus
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Early Brain Development (AQA GCSE Psychology): Exam Questions
Exam code: 8182
24 mins8 questions
29 marks
Psychologists have developed many ways to study the brain. A psychologist called Penfield used a method called the Montreal procedure to study the cortex. The method involved gently stimulating parts of the cortex with electricity. Participants were asked to describe any sensations that they experienced.
Outline early brain development.
Discuss the appropriateness of Penfield's method to investigate the brain before birth and during the early years of life.
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34 marks
The following statements are findings from research into early brain development.
Read each statement and identify whether it describes the role of nature or nurture in early brain development.
Tick (✓) the correct box next to each statement.
Evidence | Nature | Nurture |
|---|---|---|
Research has shown that some infections during childhood affect brain development. | ||
Research has shown that playing with and speaking to a child can support healthy brain development. | ||
Research has shown that genes influence the development of the brain. | ||
Research has shown that stressful life experiences can have negative effects on the development of a child’s brain. |
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46 marks
Read the following information.
Two doctors are discussing factors that influence the brain development of a baby before it is born. “The mother’s genes play a key role,” says Doctor Kumar. “I agree,” replies Doctor Andersson, “but the quality of a mother’s diet during pregnancy also affects how the brain develops. A healthy balanced diet is very important.” |
Explain the role of nature and nurture on the brain development of a baby before it is born.
Refer to Doctor Kumar’s and Doctor Andersson’s comments in your answer.
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51 mark
Research suggests that nature plays a role in early brain development.
Which of the following is a way that nature can affect brain development?
Experiences with other people
Genes
Getting an infection
Neglect
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61 mark
Which of the following best describes the function of the cortex?
Controls basic autonomic functions
Controls cognitive processes
Coordinates movement and balance
Passes on information from the sense organs
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71 mark
Sienna is planning her holiday. Which part of the brain plays a key role in this activity?
Brain stem
Cerebellum
Cortex
Thalamus
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81 mark
Which of the following best describes the function of the brain stem?
Controls basic autonomic functions
Controls mental processes
Coordinates movement and balance
Processes sensory information
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