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 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, by reducing extraneous load through well-structured materials, educators can free up cognitive resources for deeper processing. Recent studies have shown that incorporating multimedia elements, such as diagrams and animations, can reduce extraneous load only if they are tightly integrated with the text, otherwise they may become a source of distraction. Thus, the effectiveness of multimedia depends not merely on its presence but on its coherence with the learning objectives.
❓ According to the passage, what is the primary condition for multimedia to effectively reduce extraneous load?
A. A. The multimedia elements are visually appealing to learners.
B. B. The multimedia elements are closely linked to the textual content and learning goals.
C. C. The multimedia elements are used in every part of the instructional material.
D. D. The multimedia elements replace all written text in the learning material.
✅ 正确答案
B. The multimedia elements are closely linked to the textual content and learning goals.
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