The concept of 'cognitive load' refers to the total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. In educational psychology, cognitive load theory suggests that learning is most effective when instructional designs align with human cognitive architecture. Excessive extraneous load, such as poorly presented information or irrelevant distractions, can hinder the processing of essential material. Conversely, germane load, which is devoted to schema construction and automation, enhances learning. Researchers argue that reducing extraneous load and promoting germane load through well-structured materials can significantly improve comprehension and retention, particularly in complex subjects like science and mathematics.
❓ 文章によると、効果的な学習を高める主な要因は何ですか？
A. A. あらゆる種類の認知負荷を最小限に抑えること
B. B. レッスンで提示される情報量を増やすこと
C. C. 指導設計を認知アーキテクチャと整合させ、関連負荷（ジャーメイン・ロード）を促進すること
D. D. 作業記憶の制限を完全に排除する
✅ 正确答案
C. Aligning instructional design with cognitive architecture and promoting germane load
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