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Book 33, Question 8 · Video

Why do mammals have such big brains for their size?

Video · 1:44 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 33

Mammals have a brain layer called the neocortex, which helps them learn, remember, and solve problems. It’s one reason mammals can learn new tricks, find their way around, and play. Young mammals spend time with parents, so they have time to learn. Brain size varies, but many mammals are clever animals. Your brain weighs about three pounds.

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What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do mammals have such big brains for their size?

The Big Idea

Mammals are clever animals! They learn and solve problems. Why are their brains so big?

The Neocortex

Step one: The Neocortex. Mammals have a brain layer called the neocortex. It helps them learn, remember, and solve problems.

Learning Tricks

Step two: Learning Tricks. It's one reason mammals can learn new tricks, find their way around, and play. Dolphins, monkeys, and dogs are famous learners.

Time to Learn

Step three: Time to Learn. Young mammals spend time with parents, so they have time to learn. Brain size varies, but your brain weighs about three pounds.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! Learning layer. Solved. Found. Practiced.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Your brain is a small part of your weight but uses lots of energy. Your brain weighs about three pounds. Young mammals learn from parents. Dolphins are clever.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Put ten objects on a tray. Look at them for 30 seconds. Cover them with a cloth. See how many you can name. Try again with new objects.

Outro

Mammals have a brain layer called the neocortex that helps them learn, remember, and solve problems. That's why they can learn tricks, find their way, and play, and young mammals spend time learning from parents. Science is amazing! Remember, every big discovery starts with a small question. Keep looking, keep learning, and keep asking why! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

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