"The Brain: Our Sense of Self" has several objectives. One is to introduce students to the key concept that the sense of self, our sense of identity, is contained within the brain. Through inquiry-based activities, students investigate brain function and the various roles of the brain within the nervous system. A second objective is to allow students to develop the understanding that brain function is not predetermined; the brain can change with learning throughout life. The lessons in this module help students sharpen their skills in observation, critical thinking, experimental design, and data analysis. They also make connections to other disciplines such as English, history, mathematics, and social science. A third objective is to convey to students the purpose of scientific research. Ongoing research affects how the world is understood and gives the foundation for improving choices about personal and community health. In this module, students experience how science provides evidence that can be used to understand and treat human disease. Because the mission of the National Institute of Neurological Diseases and Stroke includes helping the public understand the importance of brain and nervous system function to health, education is an important activity for the Institute.