The implementation of Common Core State Standards (CCSS) across the country necessitates revising the English curriculum, asking teachers to incorporate and analyze more perspectives in the classroom as society becomes more diverse. The authors wondered if this reform might provide an opportunity to examine social equity by studying an anchor piece of classic literature through multiple perspectives. They investigated eleventh-grade students' understanding of the American Dream and equal accessibility as they read "The Great Gatsby" and related texts. By highlighting strategies for developing theme-based, equity-oriented curricula, a pedagogical framework is provided so that other teachers are able to create a similar unit with the text and thematic topic of their own choosing.