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 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, recent research suggests that a certain level of desirable difficulty, such as interleaving practice or introducing occasional spacing, can enhance long-term retention despite increasing momentary cognitive effort. This paradox implies that while reducing extraneous load is generally beneficial, overly simplified instruction may deprive learners of the productive struggle necessary for deep encoding of information.
❓ What does the passage suggest about the relationship between cognitive load and learning?
A. A. Reducing all cognitive load is always beneficial for learning.
B. B. Some increase in cognitive load can improve long-term memory.
C. C. Intrinsic load is more important than extraneous load.
D. D. Learners should avoid any mental effort to prevent overload.
✅ 正确答案
B. Some increase in cognitive load can improve long-term memory.
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