Anatomy and Physiology Lab

Week 9: Discussion

In your textbook, the authors state: “The central nervous system (CNS) consists of the brain and spinal cord, which primarily interpret incoming sensory information and issue instructions based on past experience. The peripheral nervous system (PNS) consists of the cranial and spinal nerves, ganglia, and sensory receptors. These structures serve as communication lines as they carry impulses—from the sensory receptors to the CNS and from the CNS to the appropriate glands or muscles” (Marieb, Mitchell, & Smith, 2013, p. 276).

The overall learning objective for Week 9 in the laboratory course is to identify and describe the major structures associated with the human brain on diagram models. In addition, you will be asked to identify and describe the components and structures associated with simple reflex arcs. To successfully complete this assignment first read the following exercises from the Laboratory Manual: Exercise 17: Gross Anatomy of the Brain and Cranial Nerves and Exercise 21: Human Reflex Physiology.

Reference:

Marieb, E. N., Mitchell, S. J., & Smith, L. A. (2013). Human anatomy &
physiology laboratory manual (11th ed.). [Fetal Pig version]. San
Francisco, CA: Pearson Benjamin Cummings.

Student Discussion Assignment

1. Briefly identify and describe the structure and function of the following structures associated with the human brain:
   • external structure (lobes and fissures) of the cerebral hemispheres
   • ventral aspect
   • meninges
   • cranial nerves (Table 17.1)
   • internal structures (i.e., cerebrum, diencephalon, midbrain, brain stem, and cerebellum)
2. Briefly identify and describe the components and structures associated with simple reflex arcs.

Write your responses in a minimum of 250 words in APA format and include your references.