About The Motor Cortex

The motor cortex is a part of the cerebral cortex involved in planning, controlling, and executing voluntary movement, like clicking the link to view this post, for example. It is theorized that “the motor cortex itself plays an active role in learning new motor movements.”¹

It consists of three major areas:

• Primary Motor Cortex–contributes to the generation of neural impulses travel down the spinal cord and control the execution of movement.
• Premotor Cortex–involved in aspects of motor control like preparation for movement and guidance of movement.
• Supplementary Motor Area–involved in the planning of movement and movement sequences.

As with all brain development, the development of this area relies on the creation of robust neural pathways. In early learning settings, that means children should be physically and mentally active Doers Of Things, not passive observers. In accordance with Hebb’s Law, neurons that fire together wire together.

Related Links

Check these links to learn more:

• https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/motor-cortex
• https://www.neuroscientificallychallenged.com/blog/know-your-brain-motor-cortex
• https://www.infobloom.com/what-is-the-motor-cortex.htm

Contribute content to Playvolution HQ
Brought to you by Explorations Early Learning

Browse Trainings

1. https://ucsdnews.ucsd.edu/