A thin layer of nerve cells protect and cover the cerebrum.  These cells are called the cortex or cerebral cortex.  Some parts of the cortex link it to the brain stem or cerebellum.  The cerebral cortex has different parts such as the sensory cortex.  The sensory cortex receives messages from sense organs and touch and temperature from all over the body! Another part of the cortex, the motor cortex, controls the skeletal muscles.  The last part of the cortex, the association cortex, makes us think and remember by analyzing, processing, and storing information.  It also gives you the ability to speak, like the lady below.