This paper presents a cognitive theory of multimedia learning from which predictions on individual differences in learning are derived and tested. Elementary students learned how to add and subtract integers with an interactive multimedia game that included visual and symbolic representations of the arithmetic procedure. They learned either with or without verbal guidance in their first language. Verbal guidance was expected to help minimize cognitive load, especially for students with low prior knowledge, low computer experience, and a less reflective cognitive style. The theoretical and practical implications of the results are discussed. (Contains 24 references.) (Author)