This article has been reproduced with the permission of Access Education and was authored by Jenny Furey

Each hemisphere of the cerebral cortex of the brain can be divided into four smaller areas called cortical lobes. Each lobe is associated with particular functions and is named after the bones of the skull that cover it.

Frontal lobe: The principle function of the frontal lobe is the control of movement. The primary motor cortex, an important arch of tissue, is located at the back of the frontal lobe and runs laterally over the top of the brain. This area directs intentional movements of the skeletal muscles.

The frontal lobe is also related to more complex behaviours. Its functions seem to be related to planning, changing strategies, self awareness, attention to emotionally related stimuli and spontaneity of behaviour. Broca’s area is located just below and ahead of the primary motor cortex. It is essential for the production of speech. It is a language area related to grammar and pronunciation.

Parietal lobe:
This lobe is located just above the occipital lobe. The principal sensory function of the parietal lobe is somatosensory perception where bodily sensations are registered. The lower parts of the parietal lobe are concerned with visually and acoustically related functions. The parietal lobe is also very important in our perception of space and in monitoring the body’s position in space.

Occiptal lobe:
This lobe is located at the back of the head. The primary function of the occipital lobe is seeing. Visual input ultimately reaches the occipital lobe of the cortex where cells communicate with one another extensively in a rich processing network.

Temporal lobe:
This lobe is located at each side of the brain, below the parietal lobe. The principal sensory function of the temporal lobe is hearing however, this lobe is also involved in vision, memory and factors of personality and social behaviour.

One of the most important language areas of the brain is a region of the auditory association cortex on the left side of the brain called Wernicke’s area. This area is necessary for comprehending spoken words.

Hemispheric specialisation:
Which side of your brain controls most of your activities? Find out with this simple exercise. Remember that the left side of your brain controls the right side of your body and the right side of your brain controls the left side of your body.

1. Clasp your hands together. Which thumb is on top? ____
2. Fold your arms. Which arm is on top? ____
3. Cross your legs. Which leg is on top? ____
4. Look through a paper tube. Which eye do you use? ____
5. Kick a ball. Which foot do you use? ____

Which side of your brain is in control?

The two hemispheres of the brain appear to differ in abilities. In about 95% of people, the left hemisphere is the dominant one.

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Jenny Furey. B.Ed., Grad Dip Child & Adol Psych., MAPS, School Psychologist, Mt St Joseph Girls’ College.

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