Final answer:
Language functions are predominantly localized in the left hemisphere, including areas like Broca's and Wernicke's areas. However, the right hemisphere contributes to the emotional and contextual aspects of language, with communication between hemispheres essential for full language processing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The possible paths that language can take in the human brain depend largely on lateralization, which refers to the specialization of function in each hemisphere. It is well established that for about 95% of right-handed individuals and a majority of left-handed individuals, language functions are primarily localized in the left hemisphere. This includes important language areas such as Broca's area, which is involved in speech production, and Wernicke's area, which is related to language comprehension.
However, it is critical to understand that while the left hemisphere is dominant for these language functions, the right hemisphere also plays a role, particularly in aspects of language related to emotion and certain types of context. Thus, language processing is not exclusive to one side and involves communication between both hemispheres via the corpus callosum. Studies of split-brain patients indicate that when the corpus callosum is cut (often to control intractable epilepsy), patients may struggle with verbal responses based on information processed in the right hemisphere.
Therefore, although language functions are predominantly found in the left hemisphere, interaction with the right hemisphere is necessary for a comprehensive language ability, making the most accurate answer to the student's question Both left and right hemispheres (option 3).