Studying Aesthetic Subjects: Exams, Practicals, and Study Skills
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The Structure in Sri Lanka
Grades 6 to 9: the aesthetic subjects (music, art, dancing, and drama and theatre) are part of the common curriculum (Nuffic, n.d.).
Ordinary Level (grades 10 to 11): students take main subjects together with optional subjects from baskets, and the aesthetic subjects include Eastern (Oriental) music, Western music, Carnatic music, Eastern dancing, Bharatha dancing, Art, and Drama and Theatre. According to one published summary, several of these require both a practical and a written test, while Art is assessed through a written paper (Wikipedia, "GCE Ordinary Level in Sri Lanka," n.d.). Check the current syllabus for details.
Advanced Level (grades 12 to 13): aesthetic subjects such as dancing, music (Western, Carnatic, or Eastern), drama, and art are offered, usually within the Arts stream (Wikipedia, "GCE Advanced Level in Sri Lanka," n.d.).
Reforms: the Ministry of Education has announced curriculum reforms to be implemented from 2026 for grades 1 and 6, with proposed subject lists that include aesthetic subjects and Film Studies at the Advanced Level (Ministry of Education, 2025). Follow official announcements for the details that apply to your year.
Other Systems
Internationally, students may take GCSE, IGCSE, or A-level Art and Design, Music, Dance, and Drama; the International Baccalaureate offers Visual Arts, Music, Theatre, and Dance; and graded exams in music and speech and drama are offered by bodies such as ABRSM, Trinity College London, and Royal Schools of Music. The skills in this book apply to all of these.
Practical Preparation
| Subject | Preparing for the practical |
| Art | Build a portfolio; practise timed drawing and painting; study techniques |
| Music | Daily scales or sarali varisai, prescribed pieces, ear tests, viva questions |
| Dancing | Technique classes; learn the prescribed items, rhythms (tala, drum patterns), and costume and makeup |
| Drama and Theatre | Learn texts; practise voice and movement; rehearse a performance piece; prepare a song if required |
Preparing for Written Papers
Learn definitions and key terms (use the glossary).
Make summary tables: periods, forms, instruments, and their features.
Practice short answers and structured essays under timed conditions.
Use past papers and teacher feedback.
For appreciation questions, use the Describe-Analyze-Interpret-Judge pattern (Chapter 10).
For history and tradition questions, learn names, places, and dates in a connected story, not in isolation.
A Weekly Study Plan
| Day | Activity |
| Daily | 20 to 40 minutes of practical work |
| Twice a week | One theory topic: notes, then recall without looking |
| Once a week | A full practice or mock performance; a timed essay |
| Once a week | Watch, listen, or visit: a concert, a gallery, a recital, or a recording |
| Once a month | Review the portfolio or repertoire with a teacher |
Memory Techniques
Use flash cards for terms, rhymes or mnemonics for lists, diagrams for relationships, and teach someone else, which is one of the best ways to learn.
Performance Anxiety
Nerves are normal. Prepare thoroughly, practise performing in front of others, breathe slowly, visualize a good performance, and focus on communicating rather than on being perfect. Warm up body and voice. If anxiety is severe, speak to a teacher or counselor.
Working with Your Teacher
Ask questions, accept correction, and practise what you are asked to. Record your lessons if allowed, and keep notes. A good teacher in the arts is often a lifelong guide.
CHAPTER 14