Is Less More?: The Dendrite Story

Dendrites are the branching arms that extend from the bodies of neurons, carrying the electrical signals that drive our thoughts and behavior. But does having more of these dendrites mean your brain is better? Janet Zadina, a neuroscientist at Tulane University, discussed this myth during a workshop titled The Truth Behind “Brain-Based” Learning.

Watch a video from the workshop below, and then use the lesson plan, videos, and articles to teach your students more about brain growth and development.

Critical Periods in Early Life

Research shows early childhood is marked by critical periods — times when the brain is intensely adaptable to new sights, sounds, tastes, and touches. But what if something in early life interferes with the ability to take in sensory information?

Myth: The Bigger the Brain, the Smarter You Are

Having a bigger brain does not guarantee more cognitive power.

Sarah-Jayne Blakemore: The Mysterious Workings of the Adolescent Brain

Why do teenagers seem so much more impulsive and so much less self-aware than grown-ups? Hear neuroscientist Sarah-Jayne Blakemore explain in this TED talk.

Development of the Young Brain

For more than twenty years, National Institute of Mental Health neuroscientist Jay Giedd has studied the development of the adolescent brain. Decades of imaging work have led to remarkable insight and a more than a few surprises.

Educator Resource: The Secret Life of the Brain

Learn about the developing brain and how your brain changes throughout your lifetime with this comprehensive website.

About the Author

Emma Lindberg

Emma is the former Outreach Associate at the Society for Neuroscience. She helped find and create Educator Resources for BrainFacts.org, as well as promote the site at conferences and events across the country.