Cerebrum

The biggest part of the brain is the cerebrum. It makes up about 85 % of the brain's weight. Its surface has a lot of wrinkles and cracks. The cerebrum is the thinking part of the brain. It controls your muscles and makes them move when you want them to.

When you think hard , try to solve a math problem or draw a picture you use your cerebrum. It is also the area which stores your memory.

The cerebrum has two halves. Some scientists think that the right half helps you think about things like music, colours or shapes. The left half helps you think logically and controls your speech. The right half of the cerebrum controls the left side of your body and the left half controls the right side.

Cerebellum

The cerebellum is a lot smaller than the cerebrum and sits at the back of the brain. It's very important because it controls balance, movement and the way your muscles work together.

It allows you to stand on your feet without falling down, or lets you balance your weight on a surf– or snowboard.

Brain Stem

The brain stem is below the cerebrum and in front of the cerebellum. It connects the brain to your spinal cord. This part of the brain controls the functions your body needs in order to stay alive and it is in charge of things that happen automatically. Breathing, body temperature, pain , hunger and heartbeats are all managed by the brain stem.

It tells your heart to pump more blood when you go jogging and need more oxygen, or it tells your stomach to digest the food that you eat. It sends messages back and forth between your brain and other organs of your body.