The concept of 'cognitive load' refers to the total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. In educational contexts, instructional designers often aim 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 (how the material is presented) exceed the learner's working memory capacity. However, recent studies suggest that a certain level of germane load, which involves the mental resources dedicated to constructing schemas, is beneficial for deep understanding. Thus, effective teaching strategies should not merely reduce all cognitive load but rather prioritize minimizing extraneous load while allowing sufficient intrinsic and germane load for meaningful learning.
❓ According to the passage, what is the primary goal of instructional design in relation to cognitive load?
A. A. To eliminate all types of cognitive load to reduce student stress
B. B. To increase germane load by making materials more complex
C. C. To reduce extraneous load while maintaining essential intrinsic and germane load
D. D. To focus solely on decreasing intrinsic load to simplify content
✅ 正确答案
C. To reduce extraneous load while maintaining essential intrinsic and 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