The concept of 'cognitive load' refers to the total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. In educational settings, instructional design often aims to manage cognitive load to optimize learning. According to Sweller's cognitive load theory, learning is hindered when the intrinsic load (complexity of the material) and extraneous load (how the material is presented) exceed the learner's capacity. However, germane load, which involves the construction of schemas, is considered beneficial. Recent studies suggest that reducing extraneous load, such as by eliminating redundant information, can free up mental resources for deeper processing. Yet, some researchers argue that a certain level of desirable difficulty, which increases cognitive load, can enhance long-term retention. Thus, the relationship between cognitive load and learning outcomes is not linear but context-dependent.
❓ Según el pasaje, ¿cuál es el factor principal que determina si la carga cognitiva es beneficiosa o perjudicial para el aprendizaje?
A. El tipo de material que se está aprendiendo
B. La cantidad de esfuerzo mental utilizado en la memoria de trabajo
C. El contexto y cómo se gestiona la carga.
D. La presencia de dificultad deseable
✅ 正确答案
The context and how the load is managed
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