The Brain and the Eye [H]

This lesson covers the structure and function of the human brain and the eye. This is Higher Tier content on the AQA GCSE Biology specification. Understanding how the brain controls complex behaviours and how the eye responds to light is essential for achieving the highest grades.

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The Human Brain

The brain is the main coordination centre of the body. It is part of the central nervous system (CNS) and is responsible for processing information from receptors and coordinating responses.

Main Regions of the Brain

Region	Location	Key Functions
Cerebral cortex	Outer layer of the cerebrum (largest part)	Consciousness, intelligence, memory, language, sensory processing, voluntary movement
Cerebellum	At the back of the brain, below the cerebrum	Balance, coordination of movement, posture, fine motor control
Medulla oblongata	At the base of the brain, connecting to the spinal cord	Controls unconscious activities: heart rate, breathing rate, blood pressure, peristalsis