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 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 working memory capacity. However, a well-structured lesson can reduce extraneous load, allowing learners to focus on schema construction. Recent studies suggest that incorporating multimedia elements, such as diagrams alongside text, can be beneficial only if they are directly relevant to the content, as irrelevant visuals may increase extraneous load and impede comprehension.
❓ 文章によると、教育設計において認知負荷を管理する主な目的は何ですか？
A. A. レッスンで提示される情報量を増やすこと
B. B. 不必要な精神的労力を減らすことで学習を向上させるため
C. C. 教材からあらゆる形式の視覚教材を排除すること
D. D. 上級学習者に挑戦させるため、レッスンをより複雑にする
✅ 正确答案
B. To enhance learning by reducing unnecessary mental effort
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