The Best Texts to Prepare For Your Part A ELA 30-1 Diploma
Updated: Jul 23
There's one question I get a lot in my tutoring sessions: what text should I use for my Part A diploma? In this article, I will explore texts that are typically studied in ELA 30-1 and explain why they may be the best choice for your Part A Diploma!
"On the Rainy River" by Tim O'Brien
This story follows Tim O'Brien as he avoids his draft notice for the Vietnam War. He starts by ignoring the draft notice and working at a local butcher but, as the urgency of the situation eats away at him, he decides to run. Near the Canadian Border, Tim stumbles across a hotel called the Tip Top Lodge. There, he meets Elroy: a man who offers him patience and understanding in the midst of Tim's turbulent draft-dodging dilemma. Here, Tim must decide whether he will flee to Canada and face the judgment of others, or go to war.
This short story is incredibly versatile. O'Brien's experience ties well to themes of self-perception, identity, the constraints of time and circumstance, and the expectations of others. Elroy is a really important character to consider in this story as well. He helps O'Brien confront his draft notice, and he shows how characteristics such as kindness, generosity and patience can help others do what they originally believed they could not.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Gatsby, a wealthy and mysterious man, holds lavish parties at his house in hopes that his past love, Daisy, will come through the door. For a long time he is unsuccessful. However, when Daisy's cousin, Nick, moves next door, the opportunity to unite with Daisy becomes tangible. Nick aids Gatsby by arranging a meeting between his cousin and her wealthy suitor. Gatsby, a hopeless romantic, believes that his relationship with Daisy can be just the same as it was years ago; however, cracks quickly begin to show. Daisy is married and has a child. She struggles to commit to a plan to leave and, ultimately, Gatsby's great love leads to his downfall.
Gatsby is the perfect tragic character to explore themes of idealism and truth, appearance and reality, and irrational decisions that are sparked by the desire to repeat the past.
Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller
In this play, Willy and his two sons, Biff and Happy, struggle with both the present and the past. Throughout their childhood, Biff and Happy were taught that it was not hard work that led to success, but the way they were perceived; however, now that they are older and unsatisfied with their lives, they begin to reevaluate.
As the play unfolds, it is clear that Willy's ideals are based on illusions. He has continually lied to his wife and sons about his success and his character in hopes of achieving the American Dream. Now, he lives most of his life in hallucinations that depict his struggle to remain rooted in reality. Although Willy remains a tragic character that struggles to redeem himself, Biff is different. He realizes that, in order to pave a better path forward, he must alter his perspective and do what his father could not: face reality.
This play is a great option as there is enough content to write on either Biff or Willy. Both these characters have very different arcs which apply to different prompts. Willy relates well to themes such as idealism and truth, perspective, and uncertainty. Biff relates well to emotional courage, individuality, and acting on one's personal desires.
Looking for more help preparing for the Part A Diploma?
My Essay Writing Handbook walks students through the process of writing an essay from start to finish. This handbook includes a step-by-step planning guide, a planning outline, insight on how to write a strong thesis, templates for each paragraph, a complete example essay, and so much more! It's a great resource to help you review the foundational skills of writing a strong CRT before you write your diploma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use a Shakespeare text for my diploma?
Some students choose to write on Hamlet or Othello and do really well on their Part A exam. Hamlet especially relates to many different prompts and themes. If you are comfortable with the Shakespeare play you studied in class, there is no reason not to use it on your diploma! If you struggled to understand the language, themes, or characters within the Shakespeare play you studied, it is best to use a text you feel more comfortable with.
How many texts should I review before my ELA 30-1 Part A diploma?
I recommend memorizing quotes from two texts you have studied in preparation for the diploma. That way, if one text does not relate well to the prompt, you have a back-up! For further information on how to prepare for the Part A Diploma, click here.
Which text is the easiest to write about?
There is no single "best" text for every student. The strongest choice is the one you understand the most. A familiar text with memorable characters, clear themes, and several important moments will almost always produce a stronger essay than a more complex text you only partially understand.
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