LITERACY

Literacy Journey

Students study languages at Quantum Academy through enriching social and cultural experiences. At Quantum Academy, we believe that immersive reading and writing experiences strengthen an individual’s relationship with a language. Through the beauty of words, our students explore opportunities to appreciate new cultures, enjoy artistic works, and taste the magic of intercultural communication. Successful graduates of our language programs ultimately become their own success stories and pursue rewarding paths all around the globe.

Browse the image below for more course details.

Our Course Streams

PRIMARY SCHOOL

HELLO ABC

Ages 3-4
In preparation for school, students will be introduced to the alphabet and to the building blocks of the English language. In this course, English sounds and words will be introduced as symbols.
Read-aloud and story-time sessions will help students develop an early appreciation for books, stories and literacy. A take-away from our HELLO ABC course is for students to use strategies to familiarise themselves with alphabet sounds as they transition from reading short sentences to simple picture books.
Ready Readers

Grades K-1
In preparation for school, students will be introduced to the alphabet and to the building blocks of the English language. In this course, English sounds and words will be introduced as symbols.
Read-aloud and story-time sessions will help students develop an early appreciation for books, stories and literacy. A take-away from our HELLO ABC course is for students to use strategies to familiarise themselves with alphabet sounds as they transition from reading short sentences to simple picture books.
Learn to Read and Write

Grade 1
While exploring Level 1 or Higher Readers level books, students will develop independent reading skills. In this course, there is an emphasis on practicing reading words out loud and presenting words verbally.
Students will be encouraged to develop mindful learning habits and positive attitudes toward discovering new information.
Read and Write to Learn

Grade 2
In this course, students will develop the necessary skills to read a chapter book. They will practice reading with expressions and intonations in mind, and complete creative projects based on novel studies and close readings.
To inspire students to develop their own opinions, students will practice writing journal entries relating to various creative and informational topics and discuss their writing with their peers.
Creative Writing and Reading

Grades 2-3
In our introductory Creative Writing and Reading class, students will begin to generate ideas and organise these ideas into paragraphs. They will additionally learn how paragraphs are constructed, and how to apply these structures to their own writing.
Students will use proper writing conventions, descriptive verbs and various sentence structures when writing paragraphs. Throughout the course, they will build cumulative vocabulary banks to grow and reflect on their vocabulary as they learn.

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MIDDLE-GRADE

Writers in the Making (Gr.3)

Grade 3
In this course, students will be introduced to a variety of literary devices such as sensory detail and imagery, setting, and plot structure. They will also explore different writing styles and have the opportunity to expand their vocabulary through engaging activities such as quizzes, novels studies, and journal entry writing. Assignments include crafting short stories, screenplays, and poems, in which the final goal in mind is for students to incorporate literary devices into their work.
Writers in the Making (Gr.4)

Grade 4
This course is designed to help students build on their writing skills and expand their academic vocabulary. Students will be introduced to different essay forms such as analytical, expository, and persuasive, as well as explore the craft behind writing engaging short stories and poems. Through interactive games and exercises, students will develop their vocabulary, and think critically and analytically when introduced to new ideas and styles of writing.
Writers in the Making (Gr.5)

Grade 5
This course builds on previous developing-level writing courses, with an emphasis on encouraging students to strengthen their own perspectives when writing analytical essays and creative pieces. Through lessons focused on specific craft elements, students will learn to write compelling stories and effectively communicate their ideas in structured argumentative formats, and in a variety of genres and mediums.
Writing Competitions-PREP

Grade 6
In this course, students will develop their own unique writing styles through writing detailed narratives, and developing logical arguments for expository essays. In the process of studying these two writing formats, students will explore storytelling elements and narrative strategies, incorporate personal experiences into their work, and use logical reasoning to develop arguments. They will also have the opportunity to write poetry and use literary devices to communicate speakers’ purposes. There is an emphasis on learning to communicate deeper meanings through written art, and learning to share and appreciate this work with others.
Writing Competitions-Junior

Grade 7
Students will continue to write analytical and comparative essays, screenplays, short stories and poems. They will submit to various writing competitions and explore genres that they are unfamiliar with in order to take risks and expand their comfort zones. Students will be introduced to the concept of sharing work with the world through submitting work for publications and competitions, with the vision in mind that meaningful writing should be celebrated.

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SECONDARY

Writing to Express (8)

Grade 8
In this writing course, students will focus on two types of writing: expository essays using the SEE format and speeches incorporating anecdotes and strategically placed tone words. Through writing responses to existing opinions, making connections between texts and the real world, and developing well-supported arguments, students will learn to communicate meaningfully. This course aims to strengthen students' academic writing abilities and introduce them to professional writing techniques.
Writing to Express (9)

Grade 9
Building on previous courses, students will continue to write narrative, descriptive and analytical essays, with an emphasis on incorporating elements such as dialogue, literary devices, and summary and scene as tools to create well structured pieces. Students will continue to use imagery and plot structures to create engaging stories. In the analytical portion of the course, students will learn to use TAG statements with the SEE essay format to structure arguments, and use paraphrasing techniques to support claims. In addition, students will practice proofreading and revision techniques to enhance final drafts.
Writing to Persuade

Grades 10-12
In this course, students will continue to write expository essays using the SEE format, and diversify their perspectives through synthesising multiple sources to create arguments. They will additionally the importance of tone in persuasive writing through the study of persuasive strategies (Logos, Ethos and Pathos), and learn how these strategies influence the way a speaker is perceived. There is a secondary emphasis on writing analysis paragraphs using proper in-text citations and paraphrased evidence.
Writing to Analyse

Grades 10-12
Students will become well-practised at writing analytical paragraphs using TAG statements to introduce written works, using the SEE claim format to introduce supporting ideas, and eloquently weaving in proper-in text citations to effectively communicate connections between arguments and supporting ideas. While structure is a major focus in this course, there is also a strong emphasis on understanding character development, conflict between individuals, literary devices, and symbols as mediums to communicate theme and purpose. Students will become confident, risk-taking writers that have developed their unique perspectives on the page.
Creative Writing and Reading

Grades 2-3
In our introductory Creative Writing and Reading class, students will begin to generate ideas and organise these ideas into paragraphs. They will additionally learn how paragraphs are constructed, and how to apply these structures to their own writing.
Students will use proper writing conventions, descriptive verbs and various sentence structures when writing paragraphs. Throughout the course, they will build cumulative vocabulary banks to grow and reflect on their vocabulary as they learn.

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UNIVERSITY PREP

SAT Preparation

Grades 10-12
Quantum SAT prep classes help give students a realistic overview of the experience of taking an SAT exam. Students will explore multiple different questions and mock-exams to practice their test time-management and exam strategies. Through close support from instructors, students will independently strengthen areas of improvement and read and write confidently.
AP Courses

Grades 10-12
AP (Advanced Placement) is a program run by the College Board that allows high school students to take college courses for university credit, with the opportunity to take more advanced courses when they start college. AP is a great way for students to show their passion for a certain subject and their ability to pursue challenges, which differentiates them from other students when applying for universities. We offer a variety of AP courses such as AP English and Language Composition, AP Psychology, AP Calculus, and AP Statistics. Preparing for AP exams will help students make the transition from high school to university.
IB Courses

Grades 8-12
The IB program is an academically vigorous, internationally recognised diploma that prepares students for success in post-secondary studies.
Quantum brings certified IB instructors with more than 15 years of teaching experience who have successfully cultivated students’ logical thinking, critical thinking, and research abilities. Our teachers help students unlock the critical strategies and intellectual means to produce consistently high quality papers.
English Proficiency Tests

CAEL: The CAEL is a Canadian English proficiency exam that tests language used in academics. Unlike the IELTS Academic exam, it not only measures students’ ability to use and understand academic English, it also prepares students in integrating information within written compositions, which is a crucial skill in achieving success in university. All parts of the exam centre around a central academic topic.
IELTS: IELTS is an international standardised English proficiency test for non-native speakers. It tests listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Quantum offers IELTS prep courses to prepare students for success on the exam, and in further language pursuits.
TOEFL: Quantum’s TOEFL classes focus on quality instruction and test-taking techniques designed to help students achieve high scores on the TOEFL English proficiency test. By providing abundant mock tests, students have opportunities to train their time management skills, which helps build their confidence.

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Literacy Instructors

Rosa Lenihan

M.A.
Director and English Instructor
With a Master’s degree in Communication and twenty years of experience in teaching English, Rosa is an effective educator who has helped guide students to strengthen their writing and analysis capabilities.
Rosa recognizes that each student is a unique individual who needs a secure, caring, and stimulating atmosphere to mature intellectually and cognitively. It is her desire as an educator to help students meet their potential by providing an environment that is fun, creative, and encourages risk-taking and a sharing of ideas. Her goal is to help each student to see the impact of their contributions in the world.
Lusheen Beaumont

B.A., TESL, IB Certificate
English Instructor
With over 11 years of full-time classroom experience, internationally-educated British teacher Lusheen delivers interesting academic workshops for the IB, SAT exam prep, English, and ESL curriculums.
Lusheen is an experienced curriculum expert who specializes in creating educational programs for high school students. His educational philosophy centres around developing his students’ understanding of language, literature, and writing to empower their own autonomous learning and success, as well as develop an appreciate for the beauty of words.
Jonas Salzberg

B.A., M.Ed., TESL
English Instructor
For over 10 years, Jonas taught students with a variety of proficiencies in the English language. He has taught students who have just begun to read, students who are developing a passion for writing, as well as students studying for the TOEFL, Cambridge and IELTS English Exams.
Jonas is an empathetic instructor who adapts his teaching style to fit students learning goals. While creating English courses, Jonas has always put himself into the “shoes” of his students, to create a curriculum that captures the attention of his students. He believes that the perspectives of his students have led him to become mindful teacher.
Casey Elliot

B.A., TEFL
English Instructor
Casey Elliott completed her Bachelor of Arts at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax with a major in linguistics and a minor in psychology. She has a passion for the English language, and hopes to spread that passion to her students.
Casey has several years of experience working in multiple roles to help children explore new discoveries. She has worked as an ESL teacher, private tutor, and camp counsellor to children aged four to fifteen. She believes that learning should be exciting, and strives to create an environment that is both educational and fun, while also catering to the needs of each student.
Diane Olemann

B.A., B.A.Ed.
English Instructor
Diane received her Bachelor of Arts in French Literature from University of Montreal and her Bachelor of Educator from St. Joseph’s Teachers’ College. She also has a DELF Junior Scolaire A2 diploma.
She is a passionate teacher who strives to create a cooperative community in the classroom that demonstrates the importance of mutual respect She has successfully assisted a few of her students in preparation for entry to Ivy League colleges in the USA and universities in England. .
Daphne McMahol

B.Ed
English Instructor
With 10 years of full-time classroom experience, as well as experience in both private and public education systems, Daphne is an enthusiastic educator who is interested in helping students explore their learning interests. Daphne is experienced in large classroom settings as well as 1-1 learning through tutoring, ESL and learning assistance programs. She also has experience working with special needs students due to her involvement with relief agencies inside and outside the classroom. Her education philosophy centres around fostering a confidence for English language and literature in students, and guiding them to become critical thinkers and life-long learners.
Sophie Thien

B.A
English Instructor
Sophie is a teacher who always makes time for her students and is eager to encourage learning in fun and new ways.
Sophie is a well-versed teacher in English, History, Geography and Law and is additionally passionate about Tennis. Her knowledge in both sports and academics has allowed her to become a well-rounded teacher.
She is currently studying political science at the University of British Columbia. Sophie works with students who want to improve their reading and writing skills so that they can take what they learn and apply it in their personal lives.
Elizabeth Semenoff-Grenon

M.A.Ed.
English Instructor
Elizabeth is a certified TESL instructor with a background in psychology. After returning from teaching English in China, she received her Master of Education from UBC and began teaching in Vancouver. Her experiences give her a unique insight into the challenges faced by language learners. Elizabeth is practised in working with children of various backgrounds and unique learning styles. She has taught academic English to students preparing for university and has helped tutor international students who need support. .
Miguel Soler

B.B.A, TEFL
English Instructor
Miguel graduated from Simon Fraser University with Honours and has experience in editing, writing, and helping students improve their English.
Miguel takes a systematic approach to language learning. He understands the importance of discipline, self-confidence, and consistency in developing strong language skills. He has a strong grasp of language structures and essay organization – both of which are crucial for standardized testing and university admissions. Miguel helps his students to empower their own learning.
Liane Tang

B.Kin.
English Instructor
Liane is a Math and English tutor with over 7 years of experience working with children from ages 5 to 18. Completing her high school education at Little Flower Academy and graduating with a Bachelor of Kinesiology at UBC, Liane is knowledgeable in all subjects. Her primary focus is working with elementary school grade students in both Math and English; moreover, she has many experiences working with secondary school students. Liane's goal is to help her students overcome any struggles they may have and to understand what they are learning so that they grow confident in their skills and aim for success in their academic careers.
Julie Wantanabe

English Instructor
Julie Wantanabe teaches ELL (English Language Learners) and English 8-12 (BC Curriculum) at Quantum, and she holds a BC Teaching Certificate. She has taught middle school English and ELL at both public and private schools in Vancouver.
Julie has extensive teaching experience, and her teaching style is catered to students individualized needs. She is skilled at incorporating students' learning habits and psychological development stages, helping them overcome language learning obstacles, strengthening their English learning foundations, and enhancing their overall grammar, vocabulary, literary appreciation, and writing skills.
Pamela Viswasam

English Instructor
After teaching for nearly ten years, Pam has gathered a thorough understanding of BC’s education system, as well as the ELL courses that pertain to elementary and middle-aged children. She believes in cultivating a lively and comfortable atmosphere in the classroom, where students can feel supported and achieve their best results.
To improve her students’ English skills, Pam often has them take part in a variety of classroom activities and games, effectively giving play and learning the opportunity to work in tandem. She also has past experience teaching at St. John’s and St. George’s, two well-known private schools in Vancouver. . .
Natalie Wong

English Instructor
Miss Natalie is a primary English teacher with +6 years of professional teaching experience in private schools. She is passionate and is deeply committed to creating a challenging yet nurturing learning environment.
She is a warm and caring teacher who wants all her students to be successful learners and works to create a classroom atmosphere that is stimulating, encouraging and adaptive to the varied needs of students.
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Shirley Wong

B.A.
English Instructor
Shirley Wong boasts over two decades of experience as a seasoned English educator with a proven track record in different educational environments. She is a personable teacher who has catered to learners from various backgrounds, age groups, and those with special needs. Shirley's language abilities extend to Cantonese fluency, as well as proficiency in Mandarin, Japanese, and French.
At Quantum Academy, Shirley teaches reading, academic writing, and private school interview skills to students from kindergarten through grade seven. Additionally, she spearheads the Young Writers, and Public Speaking Camps.
Sally Kim

B.A.,
English Instructor
Sally Kim is an educator with a bachelor's degree in sociology and a minor in English from the University of Victoria. She has extensive experience working with children as a Head Supervisor for Tomorrow's TopKids Child Care Society and as a Summer Camp Leader for West Shore Parks & Recreation, ensuring their safety and enjoyment while adhering to safety standards.
At Quantum Academy, Sally is a beloved teacher of English and Humanities who teaches students of all levels. Her teaching style reflects her passion for creativity, which inspires her students to develop a love for learning.
Sam Klein-Laufer

B.A.,
English Instructor
Sam Klein-Laufer holds a bachelor's degree in education, a TESL certificate, and a bachelor's degree in history. Despite being new to the teaching profession, Sam brings valuable experience from working in both ELL/ESL and mainstream classrooms in BC public schools.
Sam recognizes the challenges that language learners face in BC public schools, particularly international students and new immigrants who often lack adequate support. He is committed to creating personalized plans that address students' language needs while fostering creativity. Sam is passionate about helping students improve their literacy.
Cristy Watson

B.Ed.
English Instructor
Cristy has pursued her passion for education and writing for over two decades, beginning with her Bachelor of Education in English from the University of Calgary in 1987.
Cristy's experience as a child care and support teacher has given her a deep understanding of emotional learning. She has facilitated numerous creative writing workshops for adults and youth, including those with special needs.
Cristy is also the author of several books for young readers, including Room 555, Living Rough and Benched. She has been an editor for various authors of different genres.
Martin Pi

B.A.
Economics Instructor
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Eli Landa

Eli works for the Extraordinary English Teaching Department and serves as a teacher for English language learning, academic writing, and research guidance. He is passionate about teaching and committed to providing students with the tools they need to succeed in academia and beyond.
Eli's teaching methods are highly personalized, tailored to the unique needs and learning styles of each student. For English language learners, he utilizes his extensive experience as an English teacher and employs various teaching methods to help students develop language skills and achieve their academic goals. Eli's teaching style is highly interactive and engaging, providing students with a comprehensive and immersive language learning experience.