The concept of 'cognitive load' refers to the total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. In educational settings, instructional design aims to manage this load to optimize learning. According to cognitive load theory, learning is hindered when the intrinsic load (complexity of the material) and extraneous load (the way information is presented) exceed the learner's capacity. Effective teaching materials reduce extraneous load by simplifying presentations, while allowing intrinsic load to remain, as it is essential for deep processing. However, recent studies suggest that overly simplified materials may reduce germane load, which is the effort devoted to constructing schemas and integrating new knowledge. Thus, a balance is necessary: too much complexity overwhelms, but too little challenge can impair long-term retention.
❓ 지문에 따르면, 지나치게 단순화된 교수 자료의 주요 위험은 무엇인가?
A. A. 그들은 외부 부하를 과도하게 증가시킨다.
B. B. 그들은 학습에 필요한 본질적 복잡성을 줄인다.
C. C. 그들은 도식 구축에 중요한 관련 부하를 감소시킬 수 있다.
D. D. 그들은 불필요한 정보를 추가하여 인지 과부하를 유발한다.
✅ 正确答案
C. They may decrease germane load, which is crucial for schema construction.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first