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.
❓ 지문에 따르면, 외부 부하를 줄이는 것의 주요 이점은 무엇인가?
A. A. 그것은 물질의 내재적 복잡성을 증가시킨다.
B. B. 이는 관련 부하에 더 많은 정신적 자원을 할애할 수 있게 하여 이해를 돕는다.
C. C. 교수 설계의 필요성을 제거한다.
D. D. 그것은 어떤 절충도 없이 직접적으로 문제 해결 능력을 향상시킨다.
✅ 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