Cortex - GCSE Psychology Definition

Reviewed by: Raj Bonsor

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The cortex is the outer layer of the brain that plays a key role in many important functions. Think of it as the brain's "thinking cap" because it helps with processing information, making decisions, and understanding the world around us.

The cortex is involved in functions such as memory, attention, and language. It is also responsible for things like perception, which is how we take in and interpret information from our senses. In psychology, the cortex is studied because of its vital role in how we think, feel, and behave. It is divided into several parts called lobes, each with specific jobs, like controlling movement or understanding speech.

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Raj Bonsor

Reviewer: Raj Bonsor

Expertise: Psychology & Sociology Content Creator

Raj joined Save My Exams in 2024 as a Senior Content Creator for Psychology & Sociology. Prior to this, she spent fifteen years in the classroom, teaching hundreds of GCSE and A Level students. She has experience as Subject Leader for Psychology and Sociology, and her favourite topics to teach are research methods (especially inferential statistics!) and attachment. She has also successfully taught a number of Level 3 subjects, including criminology, health & social care, and citizenship.

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