Nervous and Endocrine Systems

Specialized Functions of Neurons

In order to physcially interact with the surrounding environment, the billions of neurons that make up your nervous system are specialized, and perform specific functions. In this interactivity, you will explore the neuron structure and learn about some of these specialized functions. Click the player to begin.

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Parts of the Nervous System

In order to gain an understanding of how the nervous system functions, you need to examine each of its different components. In this interactivity, you will study the various parts of the nervous system. Click the player to begin.

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So far, you learned that the nervous system includes billions of individual neurons organized into different divisions and subdivisions. Despite the different functions of each, all of the neurons and nerves communicate with one another using neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and acetylcholine (ACh). These chemicals are able to send complex signals to the brain and back, in hundredths or even thousandths of a second. This allows your reflexes to dodge a ball or swerve to avoid a tree branch in the road. Neurotransmitters do not work quite as fast a computer could over the same distance; however, nerves have more flexibility than the wires or circuits of a computer. In fact, the human brain is much more complex than even the most advanced computers of today.

The Endocrine System

The endocrine system may be slower than the nervous system, but it is equally important. It consists of a set of glands that produce critical hormones for your body. Hormones are chemical messengers similar to neurotransmitters. The main difference is that hormones work in the bloodstream, which causes them to act slower to start up and shut down. In this interactivity, you will learn more about the endocrine system. Click the player to begin.

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Nervous and Endocrine Systems Review

Now that you have learned about the nervous system and endocrine system, review your knowledge in this non-graded activity. Click the player to get started.