The concept of 'cognitive load' refers to the total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. In educational settings, instructional designers often strive 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 (manner of presentation) exceed the learner's available working memory capacity. However, recent studies suggest that a certain level of germane load, which involves the construction and automation of schemas, is beneficial for deep understanding. Therefore, effective teaching materials should minimize extraneous load while encouraging germane load, rather than simply reducing overall difficulty.
❓ What does the passage imply about effective instructional design?
A. It should eliminate all cognitive load to avoid overwhelming learners.
B. It should focus solely on reducing the complexity of the subject matter.
C. It should balance reducing unnecessary load while promoting schema-building activities.
D. It should prioritize increasing intrinsic load to challenge advanced students.
✅ 正确答案
It should balance reducing unnecessary load while promoting schema-building activities.
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