Sri Lanka G.C.E. Advance Level (A/L) Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, Information and Communication Technology serves as the backbone of modern society. This course invites you to explore the architecture of information systems by moving from the fundamental logic of binary data to the sophisticated design of software applications. You will gain a solid command of algorithmic thinking and network protocols, where you will learn to process digital information and maintain secure databases. Crucially, you will develop the technical ability to write code and develop web solutions while ensuring compliance with industry standards and cyber security best practices. By mastering the analysis of system requirements and the impact of technology, you will be equipped to evaluate digital strategies using computational reasoning and make innovative decisions based on technological capability.
Core Content Areas
The Sri Lankan GCE A/L ICT syllabus is a comprehensive two-year course designed to create competent IT professionals, covering six major technical domains.
1. Data Representation & Architecture
Focuses on number systems (Binary, Hexadecimal), coding schemes, logic gates, and the Fetch-Execute cycle of the CPU.
2. Data Communication & Networking
Explores the OSI layers, IP addressing, network topologies, transmission media, and internet technologies.
3. Programming (Python)
Covers algorithmic problem solving using flowcharts and pseudocode, leading to coding in Python (control structures, functions, lists).
4. Database Management Systems
Investigates relational database design, ER diagrams, normalization (1NF, 2NF, 3NF), and SQL queries.
5. Systems Analysis & Design
Deals with the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC), feasibility studies, and modeling tools like DFDs and UML.
6. Web Development & IoT
Focuses on HTML, CSS, basic PHP for dynamic websites, e-Commerce models, and the Internet of Things.
Assessment Structure
The GCE A/L ICT qualification is assessed by the Department of Examinations via two written papers.
- Paper 1 (Multiple Choice): A 2-hour exam consisting of 50 multiple-choice questions. This covers the breadth of the syllabus and accounts for a significant portion of the marks.
- Paper 2 (Structured & Essay): A 3-hour exam. Part A consists of 4 compulsory structured questions. Part B requires students to answer 4 out of 6 essay questions.
- School-Based Assessment (SBA): While the final grade depends on the written exams, schools conduct practical projects throughout the two years, which are essential for mastering the programming and database components.