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, first proposed by John Sweller in the 1980s, suggests that learning is most effective when instructional designs align with human cognitive architecture. The theory distinguishes between intrinsic load, which is inherent to the complexity of the material, and extraneous load, which is generated by the way information is presented. Intrinsic load cannot be altered without changing the subject matter itself, whereas extraneous load can be reduced through better instructional design. Germane load, a third type, is the effort devoted to processing and understanding the material, which contributes directly to learning. Research has shown that when extraneous load is minimized, learners have more working memory capacity available for germane processing, leading to improved comprehension and retention. However, overly simplified presentations may also reduce germane load by failing to encourage deep processing, indicating that an optimal balance is necessary.
❓ According to the passage, which of the following statements best reflects the relationship between extraneous load and learning?
A. A. Reducing extraneous load always increases germane load, thereby improving learning.
B. B. Extraneous load is fixed by the complexity of the material and cannot be changed.
C. C. Minimizing extraneous load can free up working memory, but overly simple designs may hinder learning.
D. D. Germane load is the only factor that affects learning outcomes in instructional design.
✅ 正确答案
C. Minimizing extraneous load can free up working memory, but overly simple designs may hinder learning.
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