The concept of 'cognitive load' refers to the total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. In educational settings, cognitive load theory suggests that instructional designs should minimize extraneous cognitive load to facilitate learning. Extraneous load is generated by the way information is presented to learners, such as confusing layouts or irrelevant details, which do not contribute to schema acquisition. In contrast, intrinsic load is inherent to the complexity of the material itself, and germane load is devoted to processing and constructing schemas. Research indicates that when extraneous load is high, learners have fewer resources available for germane processing, thereby hindering deep understanding. Therefore, effective instructional materials often employ strategies like worked examples or split-attention formats to reduce unnecessary mental effort and promote better learning outcomes.
❓ According to the passage, what is the primary effect of high extraneous cognitive load on learning?
A. It increases the intrinsic complexity of the subject matter.
B. It reduces the mental resources available for deep processing and understanding.
C. It makes the material more engaging and memorable for students.
D. It eliminates the need for germane load in schema construction.
✅ 正确答案
It reduces the mental resources available for deep processing and understanding.
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