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 aim to manage cognitive load to enhance learning outcomes. According to Sweller's cognitive load theory, there are three types: intrinsic, extraneous, and germane. Intrinsic load is inherent to the complexity of the material itself, while extraneous load is generated by the way information is presented. Germane load, however, is devoted to processing and understanding the material, which is beneficial for learning. Research suggests that reducing extraneous load, for instance by simplifying visual layouts or avoiding redundant information, can free up mental resources for germane load, thereby facilitating deeper comprehension. Nevertheless, over-simplification might reduce essential intrinsic load, potentially hindering the development of complex problem-solving skills.
❓ 文章によると、外的負荷を減らすことの主な利点は何ですか？
A. A. それは材料の本質的な複雑性を増大させる。
B. B. それは、関連負荷（germane load）のための心的リソースを増やし、理解を助ける。
C. C. インストラクショナルデザインの必要性を排除する。
D. D. それは問題解決スキルを直接向上させ、いかなるトレードオフも伴わない。
✅ 正确答案
B. It allows more mental resources for germane load, aiding comprehension.
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