Parts of the Brain

Your brain is your body’s supercomputer. It helps you think, learn, and even keep your heart beating without you noticing! Let’s zoom in on three important parts: the cerebrum, the cerebellum, and the brainstem.

The Cerebrum

The cerebrum is the biggest part of your brain. It sits at the top and looks a bit like a wrinkly walnut. This is where you solve math problems, remember your best friend’s birthday, and daydream about your next vacation. When you read a story, paint a picture, or chat with a friend, your cerebrum is hard at work!

The Cerebellum

Right under the cerebrum is the cerebellum. It’s smaller and rounder, and it helps you stay balanced and move smoothly. Have you ever played soccer or rode a bike? Thank your cerebellum for keeping you from wobbling and falling. It also helps you catch a ball or play the piano by making your movements precise.

The Brainstem

At the base of your brain is the brainstem. This part connects your brain to your spinal cord. It makes sure you breathe, your heart beats, and your body digests food—all without you having to think about it. In other words, the brainstem is your automatic helper.

Now that you know these three parts, you’re on your way to becoming a real brain detective!

Label and Learn: Brain Diagram

Use the blank brain diagram below to help you label, color, and match each part. Follow the steps:

1. Label and Color
On the diagram, draw a line from each blank to the correct spot on the brain. Then color each part:

• Cerebrum – red
• Cerebellum – blue
• Brainstem – green

1. ____________
   
   
   
2. ____________
   
   
   
3. ____________
   
   
   

(Diagram of a brain with three numbered arrows goes here.)

2. Match Each Part with Its Function
Write the letter of the function next to each part below:

Cerebrum: ___



Cerebellum: ___



Brainstem: ___

Functions:
A. Helps you think, learn, and remember.
B. Helps you stay balanced and move smoothly.
C. Controls breathing, heartbeat, and digestion.

How Neurons Send Messages

Neurons are special cells that carry messages in your brain and body. Each neuron has three main parts: the dendrites, the cell body (soma), and the axon.

Parts of a Neuron

• Dendrites are branch-like arms that catch messages from other neurons.
• Cell Body (Soma) keeps the neuron alive and decides if the message should be sent on.
• Axon is a long tail that carries the message away to the next neuron.

Sending the Message

When a message travels down the axon, it reaches the synapse, a tiny gap between neurons. Neurotransmitters are like tiny mail carriers. They jump across the synapse and deliver messages to the next neuron’s dendrites.

Why Neurons Matter

Imagine you are playing telephone with friends. You whisper a word into your friend’s ear, and they whisper it to the next person. Dendrites are like ears that listen, neurotransmitters are the whispers, and the axon is the carrier. Neurons send messages super fast, letting you think, move, feel, and learn. When you pick up a pencil or remember your favorite cartoon, thank your neurons for all the talking they do!

Neuron Diagram Worksheet

In this activity, you will draw, label, and color a neuron—and then match each part to its function!

1. Draw and Label

Below is a blank neuron outline. Use your pencil to sketch a neuron showing:

• Dendrites (branch-like arms at one end)
• Cell Body (Soma)
• Axon (long tail)
• Synapse (end bulbs at the tip)

(Blank neuron outline goes here.)

On your drawing, write the name of each part next to these numbers:

1. ____________
   
   
   
2. ____________
   
   
   
3. ____________
   
   
   
4. ____________
   
   
   

Color your drawing:

• Dendrites – red
• Cell Body (Soma) – blue
• Axon – green
• Synapse – yellow

2. Match Each Part to Its Function

Write the letter of the correct function next to each neuron part below:

Dendrites: ___



Cell Body (Soma): ___



Axon: ___



Synapse: ___

Functions:
A. Carries messages away from the cell body.
B. Receives messages from other neurons.
C. Keeps the neuron alive and decides if the signal should go on.
D. The gap where messages jump across to the next neuron.

Neuron Tag

Objective: Students will act out how a neural signal travels through a neuron’s parts—dendrites, soma, axon, and synapse—to reinforce their understanding of signal transmission.

Materials Needed:

• Open playing space or gym
• Four corner labels: Dendrites, Soma (Cell Body), Axon, Synapse
• A small token to represent the neural signal (e.g., ball or beanbag)
• Timer (optional)

Preparation (Teacher):

• Place one label in each corner of the space.
• Explain that each corner represents a part of a neuron.

Game Instructions (5 minutes):

1. Assign Roles
   • All students start in the center “resting” area.
   • Select one student to begin as the Signal holding the token.
2. Signal Journey
   • On “Go,” the Signal runs to the Dendrites corner, taps a student there, and shouts “Dendrites receive signal!”
   • That tapped student takes the token, runs with the Signal (if you choose) to the Soma corner, taps a student, and says “Soma decides to send it!”
   • Repeat the action by moving from Soma → Axon (“Axon carries message!”) → Synapse (“Synapse passes neurotransmitters!”) corners, each time tapping a new student.
3. Continue the Flow
   • At the Synapse corner, the student holding the token chooses a new student in the center as the next Signal, resets token in hand, and the game restarts.
4. Time or Turn Limit
   • Continue until most students have tapped or for a set time (e.g., 3 minutes).

Debrief (2 minutes):

• Gather students and ask:
  • “Which part shouted the loudest?”
  • “How did it feel to be the token carrying the message?”
  • “How does this activity show what happens in your brain when neurons communicate?”

Extension: Challenge students to speed up the signal flow or add an extra corner for myelin sheath insulation to show how messages travel faster.

How Brain Networks Work

Your brain isn’t just a collection of single neurons. It’s like a giant city where roads connect houses, stores, and schools. Each neuron is a “road,” and when roads join into networks, messages can travel even faster and reach more parts of your brain.

Forming Networks

Neurons connect at spots called synapses. When one neuron sends a signal, it meets another neuron at a synapse. Over time, neurons that “talk” together often become stronger friends. This group of connected neurons is called a neural network. Networks work as teams to help you do things like solve math problems, catch a ball, or draw a picture.

Plasticity: Practice Makes Stronger Connections

Your brain has a special power called plasticity. Plasticity means brain networks can change and grow when you practice. Imagine practicing a new dance move. At first, your body might feel wobbly. But each time you practice, the network that controls your balance and muscles becomes stronger. Tiny branches on neurons (dendrites) grow, and synapses become better at sending messages. Soon, you move without even thinking!

Why Practice Matters

The more you practice, the stronger and faster your networks become. Whether you’re learning to read, ride a bike, or solve puzzles, your brain is building and reinforcing a unique network just for you. Remember: every time you try again—ask a question, repeat a step, or solve a problem—you’re helping your brain grow smarter and stronger.

Network Mapping Worksheet

Now that you’ve read about how brain networks form and grow stronger with practice in Brain Networks Reading, it’s time to map your own brain network!

Materials: Yarn or string, tape, colored markers

1. Draw and Label Brain Parts

In the space below, draw three circles. In each circle, write one of these brain parts:

• Cerebrum
• Cerebellum
• Brainstem

1. ____________
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. ____________
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. ____________
   
   
   
   
   
   

(Encourage neat, evenly spaced circles so you can tape yarn later.)

2. Map Connections with Yarn

Choose three different tasks you’ve practiced (like riding a bike, playing piano, or solving math problems). For each task:

Task A: ____________________________
Brain Parts Involved: ______________ ↔ ______________

• Stretch a piece of yarn between the two circles you drew.
• Tape each end inside the circles.
• Use a marker to write the task name on the yarn.

Task B: ____________________________
Brain Parts Involved: ______________ ↔ ______________

• Connect circles with yarn and label as above.

Task C: ____________________________
Brain Parts Involved: ______________ ↔ ______________

• Connect circles with yarn and label as above.

3. Reflection

1. Which connection (yarn link) feels the strongest and why?

1. How might practicing a new skill build a brand-new connection between different brain parts?

Signal Switch Game

Objective: Reinforce how brain networks pass signals by having students use their yarn connections to move a “signal” through the network.

Materials Needed:

• The yarn network each student created in Network Mapping Worksheet
• A small object to represent the signal (e.g., a beanbag or small ball)
• Open space or large table where the yarn network can be laid out or held up by students
• Timer (optional)

Preparation (Teacher):

• Have students arrange their yarn connections in a large loop or web on the floor or by standing in a circle, each holding a taped yarn end at their circle.
• Ensure each student knows which brain parts their yarn end represents.
• Explain that each yarn strand is a neural pathway and the object is a neural signal.

Game Instructions (5 minutes):

1. Assign the First Signal
   • Choose one student to start as the Signal Carrier. Give them the token.
2. Passing the Signal
   • The Signal Carrier calls out one brain part (e.g., “Cerebrum!”) and passes the token along the yarn strand to the student holding the other end of that strand.
   • That student then calls out the next brain part they’re connected to and passes the token along that strand.
   • Continue passing the token, calling out each part in sequence, until the token returns to the starting student or completes a loop.
3. Speed Round (Optional)
   • Use a timer and challenge students to pass the signal around the entire network in under 30 seconds, naming each part in order as they go.
4. Role Rotation
   • After one full loop, choose a new student to be the Signal Carrier and repeat so everyone gets a turn.

Debrief (3 minutes):

• Ask: “How did the signal flow through your network?”
• Prompt: “Which connections moved the fastest? Why do you think practice made them strong?”
• Discuss how this activity mimics real neural networks in your brain: practice builds stronger, faster pathways.

Brain Health: Fueling and Caring for Your Brain

Your brain is always busy. It helps you think, learn, and remember. To do its best, your brain needs healthy fuel, regular movement, and plenty of rest. Let’s explore three important habits that keep your brain strong and sharp!

Nutrition: Brain Fuel

The foods you eat provide energy and building blocks for your brain cells. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains give you vitamins and minerals that help you focus in class and solve problems. Foods like nuts, seeds, and fish have healthy fats that support brain cell connections. Try to eat colorful fruits and veggies every day—each color brings different nutrients to keep your brain happy!

Exercise: Brain Booster

When you run, jump, or play sports, your heart pumps more blood to your brain. This extra flow carries oxygen and nutrients, helping your brain work faster and clearer. Exercise also triggers chemicals called endorphins that make you feel good and reduce stress. A quick game of tag or a bike ride not only strengthens your muscles but also keeps your brain alert and ready to learn!

Sleep: Brain Recharge

Sleep isn’t just rest—it’s when your brain tidies up and stores memories. During deep sleep, your brain sorts out what you learned and clears away waste. Getting 9–11 hours of sleep each night helps you pay attention in school, remember facts, and solve new problems more easily.

By eating nutritious foods, staying active, and getting enough sleep, you give your brain the best chance to grow stronger every day. Start building these habits now, and your brain will thank you with sharper thinking and brighter ideas!

Brain-Friendly Plan Worksheet

In this activity, you will choose three healthy habits—one for nutrition, one for exercise, and one for sleep—and make a plan for when and how you will do them each day. Use colored pencils to make your plan bright and clear!

1. Choose Your Brain-Healthy Habits

Write down one habit for each category below:

Nutrition Habit: ____________________________



Exercise Habit: ____________________________



Sleep Habit: ________________________________

2. Plan the Details

For each habit, answer the questions about when, where, and who will help you stay on track.

Nutrition Habit

• When will I do this? ______________________
  
  
  
• Where or with whom will I do this? _______
  
  
  

Exercise Habit

• When will I do this? ______________________
  
  
  
• Where or with whom will I do this? _______
  
  
  

Sleep Habit

• What time will I go to bed? ______________
• What time will I wake up? ______________
  
  
  

3. Draw or Write Your Daily Plan

Show how you will fit all three habits into your day. You can draw a picture or write sentences on the timeline below.

(Use the space below to sketch or write.)

4. Reflection

Why did you choose these habits? How do you think each habit will help your brain stay strong and ready to learn?

Brain Health Quiz

Objective: Students will review and reinforce their understanding of brain‐healthy habits—nutrition, exercise, and sleep—through a fast‐paced team quiz.

Materials Needed:

• Question cards (printed and cut)—see sample questions below or create your own
• Two buzzers, bells, or signal cards (one per team)
• Scoreboard or chart paper and markers
• Timer (optional)

Preparation (Teacher):

• Write each quiz question on the front of a card and the answer on the back. Prepare at least 10–12 cards.
• Arrange seating so teams face the teacher or quizmaster.
• Display the scoreboard and explain how points will be tracked.

Game Instructions (5 minutes):

1. Form Teams
   • Divide the class into two teams. Assign each team a buzzer, bell, or raise‐hand signal card.
2. Ask a Question
   • Read a question card aloud.
   • Teams may buzz in or signal once they think they know the answer.
3. Answer and Scoring
   • The first team to signal gets 10 seconds to answer.
   • Correct answer: +1 point.
   • Incorrect answer: other team has one chance to steal for 1 point.
4. Continue Rounds
   • Remove each used card to avoid repeats.
   • Play until all cards are used or time runs out.
5. Declare Winners
   • The team with the most points wins the quiz.

Debrief (2 minutes):

• Celebrate all teams’ efforts and review any questions that were challenging.
• Ask: “Which fact surprised you the most? How will you use one of these habits today?”

Sample Questions (and Answers)

1. Name two types of food that provide healthy fats for your brain.
   (Answer: nuts, seeds, fish)
2. How many hours of sleep do 4th graders need each night?
   (Answer: 9–11 hours)
3. What happens to your brain when you exercise?
   (Answer: It gets more oxygen and nutrients from increased blood flow; endorphins are released.)
4. True or False: Whole grains help your brain focus.
   (Answer: True)
5. Which brain part controls automatic functions like breathing and heartbeat?
   (Answer: Brainstem)
6. What chemical released during exercise makes you feel good?
   (Answer: Endorphins)
7. Why is sleep called “brain superpower time”?
   (Answer: Your brain stores memories and clears out waste during deep sleep.)
8. Give one example of a colorful fruit or vegetable that helps your brain.
   (Answer: Any—berries, carrots, spinach, etc.)
9. What is plasticity in the brain?
   (Answer: The ability of brain connections to grow and strengthen with practice.)
10. Name one activity that boosts your brain by increasing blood flow.
    (Answer: Running, jumping, playing sports, dancing, etc.)