Chapter 20. Subject Combinations, Examination Skills and Careers
Choosing a combination. In the Arts stream, students usually take three subjects. Consider your interests, strengths and the subjects’ links to the courses you want to follow. The rules on allowed combinations and subjects offered at your school are set out in the current official circulars [55][56].
Examples of coherent combinations (illustrative):
| Direction | Possible subjects |
|---|---|
| Politics, law and public service | Political Science, History, Economics, Logic |
| Geography and environment | Geography, Economics, Political Science |
| Languages and literature | Sinhala or Tamil or English, a second language, History |
| Media and communication | Media Studies, a language, Political Science or History |
| Arts and culture | Art, Music or Drama and Dance, a language or History |
Study skills
Make a timetable that gives regular time to each subject.
Study the syllabus, past papers and marking schemes.
Make summary notes, timelines, maps and mind maps.
Practise writing timed essays and get feedback.
For practical subjects (Art, Music, Drama, Dance, Media), practise regularly and keep a portfolio or journal.
Use libraries and reliable sources, and discuss ideas with others.
Examination technique. Read each question carefully; note the command words (describe, explain, discuss, evaluate, compare); plan essay answers; use examples and evidence; manage your time; and check your work.
University admission. Admission to state universities in Sri Lanka is based on A/L results and rules set by the University Grants Commission, including Z-scores, which depend on the subject combination and district, so check the current handbook and regulations [54]. Many private and foreign institutions offer other pathways.
Further study and careers. Arts students may study degrees in arts, social sciences, law, languages, journalism and mass communication, international relations, geography and planning, history and archaeology, education, fine arts, music, drama and dance, and many more. Careers include teaching, law, public administration, diplomacy, journalism and broadcasting, translation and interpreting, social work, research, tourism, heritage and museum work, creative industries and business [54].
Skills for life. Critical thinking, clear writing and speaking, research, cultural understanding, creativity, ethics and adaptability are valued in every field.
Review: Where can you find the current rules on subject combinations? (Answer: in the official A/L circulars of the Department of Examinations and the National Institute of Education.)