O/L ICT Syllabus: Your Complete Guide to Success

From 2026, ICT is a mandatory O/L subject in Sri Lanka, focusing on practical tech skills, basic coding, and online ethics, building a strong base for A/L ICT across Grades 10 and 11.

Evolution of O/L ICT Curriculum

Sri Lanka’s ICT education framework has progressed through three distinct phases since its initial implementation:

Phase 1 (2010-2021)

Optional Subject: Offered as an optional module focusing on fundamental computer literacy and theory.

Phase 2 (2022-2025)

Transition: Rolled out as a core subject with unified exams and enhanced teacher development.

Phase 3 (2026 Onwards)

Mandatory Subject: Fully mandatory. Emphasizes hands‑on projects, introduces AI basics, and integrates ICT with mathematics and science.

O/L ICT Syllabus Structure

This two‑year O/L ICT program is split between Grade 10 and Grade 11. Each unit expands on the last, ensuring you master foundational topics before moving on to more advanced skills.

Grade
Unit
Key Topics
Link
Grade 10
Information and Communication Technology
Introduction to ICT, basic concepts and terminology
Grade 10
Fundamentals of a computer system
Computer hardware components, input/output devices, system architecture
Grade 10
Data Representation Methods in the Computer system
Binary, hexadecimal, ASCII, data conversion methods
Grade 10
Logic Gates with Boolean Functions
Basic logic operations, truth tables, Boolean algebra
Grade 10
Operating Systems
OS functions, types, user interfaces, file management
Grade 10
Word Processing
Document creation, formatting, tables, mail merge features
Grade 10
Electronic Spreadsheet
Cell operations, formulas, functions, charts, data analysis
Grade 10
Electronic Presentations
Slide creation, animation, transitions, multimedia integration
Grade 10
Database
Database concepts, tables, queries, forms, reports
Grade 11
Programming
Problem analysis, algorithm development, control structures (sequence, selection, iteration), flowcharts, pseudo code, programming concepts
Grade 11
System Development Life Cycle
Information systems concepts, system components, manual vs. computer-based systems, SDLC phases
Grade 11
The Internet and the Electronic Mail
Internet concepts, web technologies, email fundamentals, online communication
Grade 11
Use of Multimedia
Multimedia components, digital media types, media processing
Grade 11
Web Designing Using Multimedia
Web page development, HTML basics, multimedia integration
Grade 11
Information and Communication Technology and Society
Digital divide, digital bridge, security issues, ergonomics and health concerns, e-waste management, ICT ethics

Critical Units for Exam Success

Not every topic carries equal exam weight. Prioritize these units to maximize your score:

Hardware & Software Basics (Grade 10)
Master the roles of CPU, memory, storage, and operating systems—they underpin everything else.
Programming Basics (Grade 11)
Drill on algorithm design, flowcharting, and pseudo‑coding—core skills for both theory questions and practical tasks.
Database Management (Grade 11)
Practice designing tables, writing basic SQL queries, and generating reports—this is a frequent exam topic.
Networking & Cybersecurity (Grade 11):
Understand LAN/WAN models, data transmission methods, and common security risks to address modern ICT challenges.

Exam Preparation Strategies

Effective exam preparation involves a combination of understanding the syllabus content, practicing past papers, and developing strong problem-solving skills. Here are some helpful strategies:​

Thorough Syllabus Coverage

Ensure you understand all the topics listed in the syllabus.

Practice Past Papers

Familiarize yourself with the exam format and types of questions by solving past papers.

Practical Exercises

Regularly practice using software applications and programming languages to reinforce your knowledge.

Conceptual Clarity

Focus on understanding the underlying concepts rather than just memorizing facts.

Time Management

Practice answering questions within the allocated time to improve efficiency.

Seek Clarification

Don’t hesitate to ask your teacher or classmates for help if you are struggling with any concepts.