the outsiders chapter 1 assignment

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7 Creative Activities to Teach The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton

S.E. Hinton was only 15 when she started writing her classic novel,  The Outsiders. Now, over 50 years after its publication, Hinton’s coming of age novel continues to provide an impactful commentary on society. Year after year, many English teachers return to this story, each time glimpsing something new through the eyes of its memorable protagonist, Ponyboy Curtis. This has long been a favorite in the ELA classroom. Its dramatic and emotional plotline lends itself incredibly well to creative activities that make teaching The Outsiders  engaging year after year. Below are my 7 favorite activities for teaching S.E. Hinton’s classic.

1. Identity Activity

This first activity gets students to dig deeper into themes of identity in the novel. It challenges students to think about how identity is represented in The Outsiders  by teaching them to make connections to the way they view their own identities.

How this activity works:

On the day after students have read chapters 1-2 from  The Outsiders , I like to initiate this activity by putting up an identity-related poster on the classroom door. This gets students thinking about the idea of “identity” before they even sit down.

At the start of class, I explain that Ponyboy identifies himself as a greaser. Then, in small groups or as a whole class, I get students to discuss the important elements of identifying with this group (i.e. appearance, interests, actions, personality, etc.). Students should develop a list that may include such things as having long greased hair, fighting, committing crimes, being tough, carrying a switchblade, and showing loyalty, for example.

Students then get the chance to analyze their own identities. I have them consider what kind of group they associate with. I hang identity cards on the wall all around the room (football player, musician, academic etc.). Then, I explain that students should look around and have them choose one that they identify with the most. I always offer the option for students to create their own identity card as well as some may not feel connected to the pre-selected options.  It’s important to tell them that it doesn’t matter if they are alone in a group since perhaps the other people who identify with this group are simply not in this class!

To close the activity off, I like to start a whole class discussion using questions like…

• Which group in the class do you think your group has the least in common with? Why?
• Can you identify with more than one group? What other groups in this class activity do you identify with?
• What did you learn about identity through this activity?

2. Stereotypes

The second activity I use for teaching The Outsiders  will prompt students to dig deeper and empathize with the characters. This time, however, it is by deconstructing the stereotypes at the center of the novel. I usually do this activity after students have finished reading chapters 3 and 4.

I start this activity by putting up 5 pictures of strangers around the classroom. Then, in small groups, I get them to discuss assumptions they have about what their personalities would be like, what job they would have, etc. After they’re done this first part of the activity, I like to pause and provide students with the definition of stereotype: a widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing. I have students discuss with their groups whether or not they stereotyped during this activity.

Then, I explain that in The Outsiders , the Socs and Greasers cannot get along with each other because they hold stereotypes. The Socs think the greasers are low-life thugs while the greasers think the Socs are rich snobs. I also explain that in these chapters, Cherry and Ponyboy, two people from completely different groups, are able to break down stereotypes and find common ground with one another.

As a second part of the activity, I have students try to find examples of Ponyboy’s shift in perspective. Below are a few possible responses that students might share:

• “It seemed funny to me that Socs – if these girls were any example – were just like us” (37).
• “I don’t know why I could talk to her; maybe for the same reason she could talk to me” (39).
• “It seemed funny to me that the sunset she saw from her patio and the one I saw from the back steps was the same one. Maybe the two different worlds we lived in weren’t so different. We saw the same sunset” (41).

I like to conclude this activity by starting a class discussion with questions such as “How do you think it feels to be stereotyped” and “What are the negative consequences of believing stereotypes?”

 3. Nothing Gold Can Stay

In chapter 5 of  The Outsiders , Ponyboy recites Robert Frost’s “Nothing Gold Can Stay.” The poem is referenced again later on in the novel when Johnny Cade says to Ponyboy, “Stay gold.” After students have read chapters 5 and 6, I get them to complete an activity centered around Frost’s poem to prepare them for the impact of Johnny’s memorable line.

For this activity, I put students into groups of 3 or 4. I hand out printed copies of Frost’s  “Nothing Gold Can Stay”  to each group, and I project a video of Ponyboy reciting the poem from The Outsiders movie, getting students to follow along.

I then go through the poem line by line, and I ask them questions that invite them to dig deeper into the poem’s meaning. For example, for the first line, I ask “What does nature’s first green mean” and “Why is it gold? Do you think Frost means the color gold? What else could gold symbolize/represent?” Students record their answers on a  brainstorming sheet,  and then once we’ve gone through each line, we discuss possible interpretations and lingering questions about the poem as a whole and its significance to the novel so far.

The idea of impermanence is central to Robert Frost’s poem—and to The Outsiders. As a final question, I ask students to reflect on things in their lives that will eventually change. I get them to consider how will they cope with these changes.

4. The Interview Activity

This activity is designed to be used for after students have read chapters 7-8 of The Outsiders . In these chapters, Ponyboy tells the reader about being interviewed by reporters while in the hospital visiting Johnny and Dally. Not much detail is provided on who is interviewed and what questions are asked, but the reader gets more insight into this in chapter 8 when Ponyboy says what information was included in the article.

I start this interview activity by putting students into pairs. Students will be using the information we have from the newspaper article for this activity, so I have them read the long quotation in the novel where Ponyboy describes the information included in the articles. Then, I get them to choose one of the characters listed below to be interviewed:

• Cherry Valance
• Darry & Sodapop
• Randy Adderson
• The School Principal

From the long quotation , they will infer what questions a local reporter might ask the character they’ve selected. Their questions should also be informed by their reading, and they must include responses from the interviewee. I encourage students to try and make this as realistic and professional as possible. I usually give each group some time to practice their written interview before performing it out loud in front of the class.

This activity is not only entertaining, but it will also force students to further invest themselves in the characters and the details of the novel!

5. Socs vs. Greasers Rumble

The Socs vs. Greasers rumble activity can be done after chapters 9-10 to get students thinking critically about the idea of the rivalry between Socs (East) and Greasers (West). In these chapters, the hostile relationship between the Socs and the Greasers comes to a climax with the planned rumble. Students will be exploring this rivalry using information from the whole novel.

For this activity , I put students into groups of four and label their table Greasers or Socs. I then tell the students that they are now looking at their new gang! Sometimes, I’ll even pit them against another specific group from the opposing gang for a little added fun.

Next, I have the groups complete an “East vs. West Rumble Assignment” where they answer distinguishing questions according to their assigned gang (Soc or Greaser). Students should be encouraged to “get into the character’s brain” and really pretend that they are a member of that gang to answer questions like “What are some things you dislike about the Socs / Greasers?” and “How would you react if a Soc / Greaser was insulting a member of your gang?” After they’re done, I get each group to share what they wrote with the rest of the class from the perspective of a Greaser or Soc. The answers are always mostly very negative towards the other gang as they are biased towards their own.

After students have shared, I tell them that they will now look at each gang objectively—not influenced by personal feelings or opinions in considering and representing facts. They will share the biggest differences and similarities between the gangs and the gang members. Through this activity, it is always my goal for the students to realize that the gangs actually have a lot in common.

6. Wanted Poster

When I’m teaching The Outsiders,  I like to separate the last two chapters of the novel into two fun activities. The first is this wanted poster assignment.  Earlier in the novel, Ponyboy is involved in an altercation where his friend Johnny ends up killing someone, and Dally instructs them to get away and hide in an abandoned church until he comes for them. For the wanted poster activity, students will create a “Wanted Poster” for one of these two characters who were on the run. This is a fun activity that will allow students to show their understanding of key details surrounding these characters.

Using a graphic organizer,  students plan out their poster before they begin working on a good copy. I get students to focus on the following information:

• the full name of the character
• their nickname
• a physical description
• specific acts committed
• personality traits
• known hangouts/associates
• what to do if found
• a reward amount.

I also get them to include an image (either drawn or found), and I encourage them to be as creative as possible!

7. Outsiders Tattoos

This final activity for teaching The Outsiders  is one that students tend to really enjoy! Tattoos are not only something that is sure to spark your students’ interest, but they also lend themselves well to teaching about symbolism in  The Outsiders. 

I start this activity by asking my students to imagine that a character from  The Outsiders  decides to get two tattoos on his or her arm. Then, I get them to consider what they would choose based on what they know about the character. The character, the tattoo designs, and the explanation behind them are up to the students. However, the choices should be grounded by concrete details in the novel. Students get to draw the tattoos. I like to give them a tattoo worksheet for this with a bare arm graphic as a canvas.

To make this even more fun, I suggest putting the artwork up on the walls and turning the class into a full-on  Outsiders Tattoo Expo . Get students to go around and look at all the tattoos. Then, wrap up with a discussion on which tattoos each student liked and why!

I hope you found these 7 creative activities for teaching The Outsiders  helpful! If you are interested in more tips and resources for developing students’ reading skills in ELA, click here.

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The Outsiders Lesson Plans | Entire Novel Study

This lesson is  Background Information for the novel  The Outsiders  by S. E. Hinton.

The focus of this lesson includes history of the 1960s and topics like culture, style, music, and cars.

Before reading the novel  The Outsiders , familiarize your students with the culture of the time period as  The Outsiders  is set in 1960s Tulsa, Oklahoma. In this lesson, your students with be engaged as they take notes from a Powerpoint presentation and answer questions using the accommodating worksheet provided. Students will learn about the history of the 1960s, the clothing of the generation, the music the youth listened to, and other important details from the novel such as: car models, Paul Newman, hitchhiking, and drive-in movie theaters.

Students will also be introduced to the author S. E. Hinton, the gang rivalry present in the novel  The Outsiders , and the genre of Coming of Age literature.

Students will end this lesson with a quick write where they will actually read an excerpt from the story and answer a related prompt.

Have your students answer serious questions about life in order to build anticipation  before reading The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton.  These open-ended questions will be sure to get your students’ wheels turning and will help bridge connections to the themes in the novel.

After your students are done reading the entire novel, have them reflect on the literature with these  open-ended questions for after reading.

These reflection questions will open up wide conversations and discussions amongst students as well as help them digest and analyze the literature.

Teach your students the  Slang Words and Phrases from the novel The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton  to enhance comprehension and understanding of the plot as well as the time period the novel is set (Oklahoma 1950s).

This activity can work for BEFORE, DURING, OR AFTER reading.

Two graphic organizers are included; each make it easy to teach students the definitions of slang terms used throughout the novel. The first graphic organizer is a fun way to prepare students for the novel by having them guess the meaning of each slang word before telling them the actual meaning. The second graphic organizer is a great way to review the text during or after reading as it includes the quote and chapter number where each slang term is used. Answer keys provided.

Also included is a Powerpoint presentation that contains all slang words or phrases with their definitions.

If you are working on a  novel study for  The Outsiders  by S. E. Hinton, these Vocabulary Lists, Practice Activities, and Quizzes  will work perfectly for you!

There are three sets of vocabulary words, divided by chapters. I’ve created graphic organizers for every chapter of words, which includes the definition, part of speech, line from the novel, and the students’ definition in their own words.

Additionally, I have created corresponding practice activities for students to actually use the words independently before being tested on them.

There are three separate quizzes, divided by chapters that require students to use their comprehension skills. The tasks included ensure students will understand the context of each word in a sentence as well as how to write their own sentences using said vocabulary words.

ANSWER KEYS INCLUDED FOR ALL!

If you are doing a novel study for  The Outsiders  by S. E. Hinton, these Before Reading activities  can aid your students with engagement and reading comprehension. Using the word splash technique, students will  make predictions  about what each new chapter will be about.

Students will connect the words provided in the word splash to what they already know and what they’ve been reading in the novel  The Outsiders.  Making predictions is a fun exercise and builds anticipation for students.

Included in this purchase are 12 individual  journal prompts  based on each chapter of the novel  The Outsiders  by S. E. Hinton.  These journal prompts are meant to be used at the end of every chapter.

Students will reflect on what they’ve just read by connecting their personal opinions and feelings with the major conflicts of each specific chapter. Each prompt is ready to print individually or as a packet!

While completing a novel study for the book  The Outsiders  by S. E. Hinton, have your students answer reading comprehension questions for every chapter  using this organized packet.

Included are 12 sets of questions (for every chapter) which analyze character motives, themes, symbols, irony, dialogue, and basic comprehension of the plot. Detailed answer keys are provided for all questions.

If you want to make sure your students are following along and completing the reading for the novel  The Outsiders  by S. E. Hinton, these simple Reading Checks or Quick Chapter Quizzes  are the way to go! This product works well if your students are reading independently or if you are reading as a class.

These questions are recall questions that are meant to be brief and easy to remember. This is a tool used simply to check that students are completing the independent reading, comprehending the basic information, and/or paying attention during class.

The reading checks are divided by every 3 chapters (Chapters 1-3, Chapters 4-6, Chapters 7-9, Chapters 10-12). There are three different versions of every set of questions (a, b, and c). This is so you can use different quizzes for different classes and avoid cheating (students talk and share answers)!

This product is a Powerpoint presentation only.

To administer quizzes:

• project the questions on your board for students to see
• have students use scrap paper or lined paper to write their answers
• when everyone is done, have students grade each other’s answers by switching papers in class
• review the correct answers out loud and project them on the board
• collect graded quizzes

Answer keys included.

This lesson is a  poem analysis of “Nothing Gold Can Stay” by Robert Frost . This is a perfect side activity for the novel The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton, but will also work on its own if you are looking just to teach about the poem itself.

In Chapter 5 of The Outsiders, Ponyboy recites the poem Nothing Gold Can Stay. This poem plays a major role in the novel as it represents the universal message to stay gold and stay pure. Have your students analyze the poem and build their comprehension; it will make analyzing the theme of the book much easier later on! The poem analysis will touch on important literary elements such as: rhyme scheme, tone, theme, metaphor, alliteration, allusion, imagery, and personification.

To enhance their learning and make the lesson more engaging, students will also study a poem with a similar theme. Students will listen to the Bob Dylan song, answer the questions, analyze the lyrics, and then compare and contrast the themes present in both texts.

Have your students analyze characters from  S. E. Hinton’s  The Outsiders  in a fun and engaging way:  Character Collabs !

Your students will use several  characterization  methods to depict each character’s profile, demonstrate their understanding of the literature, and present their final work on a beautiful poster.

This Body Biography Project  is a hands-on approach to learning that enhances retention and inspires students to tap into their creativity.

Students will engage with the novel on a deeper level, encouraging thinking critically, making inferences, and fostering empathy. Additionally, they will learn the importance of collaboration and effective communication.

There are 10 characters from  THE OUTSIDERS  included in this resource:

• Bob Sheldon
• Cherry Valance
• Dallas Winston “Dally”
• Darrel Curtis “Darry”
• Johnny Cade
• Ponyboy Curtis
• Randy Adderson
• Sodapop Curtis
• Steve Randle
• Two-Bit Matthews

Teach your students to  analyze themes in the novel  The Outsiders  by S. E. Hinton  with this lesson plan. Your students will determine what morals/lessons were learned or taught by specific characters in the novel; they will then evaluate how these lessons were incorporated by the author and provide textual evidence as support—all using a theme graphic organizer! An answer guide is provided for teachers.

Using their literary analysis, students will then write a TDA essay based on one theme of their choice from the novel. Students will choose a theme and analyze its development over the course of the text, including its relationship to the characters, setting, and plot. Rubric and essay prompt included.

After reading  The Outsiders  by S. E. Hinton, have your students write a personal essay  of their choice using the two options provided. Essay rubrics, prompts, and brainstorming graphic organizers are included for both essay options.

Student choice allows students to pick the topic they are most comfortable talking/writing about. The prompts both relate directly to the novel (one about heroism and one about characterization).

Rubrics focus on: content, style, conventions, focus, and organization.

Each graphic organizer is designed to match the prompt and will guide students to write a cohesive five paragraph essay.

After your students read the novel  The Outsiders  by S. E. Hinton,  have them complete a  Plot Diagram and Chronological Order Timeline.  These activities help students determine cause and effect relationships between specific events in the story. Finding textual evidence to fill out these charts also show students how and where certain elements of the story connect.

Students will analyze how and why individuals, events, and ideas develop by identifying exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. Students will also determine how the plot unfolds and how the characters respond or change as the plot moves toward a resolution. The timeline worksheet also aids students in reading comprehension. Answer keys are provided.

The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton Character Comparison Game: Would You Rather?

You’ve probably played the simple game of WOULD YOU RATHER before… where you answer a series of questions that ask would you rather pick one thing or another? For example, would you rather be a SOC or be a GREASER?

In this activity, students will first answer a number of “would you rather” questions about themselves. Then, they will answer those same questions based on what they think Ponyboy Curtis would choose. This requires students to critically think about character motivations and personality traits—plus, it’s great fun.

Afterward, students will write about what they share in common with Ponyboy and how they consider themselves different.

In this lesson, have your students complete a  quote analysis  on the most important quotes in the novel  The Outsiders  by S. E. Hinton.

Students can complete this activity independently or in groups. I include directions for a jigsaw activity which is a great cooperative learning strategy.

Included is a graphic organizer that divides important quotes by chapters and requires students to identify the speaker as well as explain the significance/ meaning of each quote.

Have your students  analyze symbols and motifs in the novel The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton  using this graphic organizer.

Students will fill out a chart to identify important symbols and then explain the significance of each symbol or motif that is demonstrated in the story.

Answer key included!

Study the four types of  Conflicts from the novel The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton.

Included in this lesson are the definitions and examples of internal and external conflict plus the four specific kinds of conflict:

1) Character vs. Self

2) Character vs. Character

3) Character vs. Nature

4) Character vs. Society

Students must look at examples of conflict from the novel and identify the conflict as one of the four types listed above.

Students must then support their answer with textual evidence.

Lastly students must explain how the conflict is resolved.

Answer key provided.

Analyze Figurative Language in The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton . Students will identify the type of figurative language being used in the quotes provided, and then explain each of their significance and meaning.

Figurative Language definitions are provided for: Allusion, Personification, Simile, Metaphor, Idiom, and Hyperbole.

Students will then write their own sentences using Figurative Language that highlight details from the novel  The Outsiders.

Answer keys provided.

If your class is reading the novel  The Outsiders  by S. E. Hinton,  you will want them to  analyze the point of view  in the story, to include: what makes an unreliable narrator and what is biased perspective.

In this lesson, students will complete the following:

• Narrator Analysis: Students will analyze the narrator Ponyboy Curtis by considering his personality traits/ and characteristics. Answers included.
• Point of View Perspective Challenge: Students will take a look back at ten scenes from the novel, considering what facts they were given by Ponyboy alone. They will then consider how these events would be different or told differently if they were to take on a different character’s perspective. They will consider how other characters are feeling emotionally in these scenes or how they might feel in hypothetical situations.
• The Trial Point of View Analysis: Students will analyze the trial/hearing that takes place in the novel. Ponyboy is on trial for the murder of Bob, but readers do not hear much about it. Ponyboy was currently in a state of delusion and didn’t understand how the trial was unfolding. Students will write the testimonies of several characters as if they were him or her in court to either defend or defame Ponyboy.
• Constructed Response: Students will learn the definition of an unreliable narrator and reasons why a narrator’s perspective might be compromised. Then, students will write a constructed response that explains why Ponyboy could be considered an unreliable narrator using textual evidence. Possible answers included.

Have your students share their understanding of the novel  The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton  by imaginatively blending their written ideas with colorful images based on information from the text. With this  one-pager reading comprehension project,  students will analyze the literature by determining theme, symbolism, characterization, and more. Students’ artwork make for unique and creative analyses of the literature and also make great bulletin boards!

Included in this purchase is:

• Student directions for the one pager project
• Rubric for the one pager project
• Example one pager
• 10 BLANK TEMPLATES (printable—optional)

Play Bingo with your students as a fun literature review game for the novel,  The Outsiders . This  character review game  includes at least 100 questions that entail information all about the characters from the novel. Questions range from physical appearances to quote identification to character motivation. With this many clues, you will have the opportunity to play SEVERAL rounds with your students without repeating questions. This game entails details from the entire novel  The Outsiders  and should be used as a review after the entire text is read (perfect for before a test). Bingo cards, character clues, and instructions are included. Bingo tokens are not included.

Characters that will be focused on include:

Your students are going to love deciphering and solving puzzles in this spectacularly themed,  The   Outsiders  360° digital escape room.  This activity is designed to work for a laptop, tablet, or smart phone. Students will solve a series of clues based on the novel  The Outsiders  by S. E. Hinton in order to crack the master lock and escape the Socs! This game entails reading comprehension skills, finding textual evidence, and making inferences . It’s the perfect addition to your novel study, whether just for fun, or to use as a review activity before administering the final test.

Included in this download are teacher instructions, student instructions, the master lock graphic organizer, answer keys, and a reflection sheet (optional).

After a novel study with the book  The Outsiders  by S. E. Hinton, assess your students with a final test.  This product includes THREE versions of  The Outsiders  test including one  learning support adaptation  modified version.

I like to have multiple versions of tests so that students are less tempted to have “wandering eyes” during the exam. Version A and B are the same in format, but contain different questions, with some questions in different orders.

Version C of this test is adapted/modified for Learning Support students or students with IEPs. To make accommodations for my students in LS, I have chunked questions, added bigger spacing, bigger fonts, less answer choices, and reduced the number of directions in certain sections.

All tests are 50 questions. 20 questions are multiple choice, 5 are short answer, 9 are quote identification, 14 are true or false, and 2 are extended response questions.

Answer keys included for all.

Challenge your students to  analyze the film The Outsiders,  movie directed by Francis Ford Coppola   (1983) and compare/contrast important elements to the classic, coming-of-age novel  The Outsiders by S. E Hinton.

This lesson includes a packet for students to complete during or after viewing the film The Outsiders. Media analysis questions as well as compare/contrast prompts are included with answer keys. Additionally, students will complete an activity that requires them to choose their own celebrity cast of actors and actresses for a hypothetical reboot of The Outsiders film.

Enjoy this extensive  Novel Study  The Outsiders  by S. E. Hinton  with your students this year! Analyze the literature using these 25 products included in this complete  Unit Plan Bundle.

This novel study will allow students to develop their reading comprehension and critical thinking skills through the novel  The Outsiders  by S. E. Hinton.

You will have access to a multitude of before, during, and after reading activities like: quizzes, tests, projects, essays, reading questions, vocabulary, background information, plot diagram, graphic organizers, journal prompts, a movie guide, and a DIGITAL ESCAPE ROOM!

BONUS FILE:  Also included in this bundle is a 6 and a half week schedule for teachers to use as a pacing guide. Teacher plans are explained for each day as well as how to best utilize this bundle of products. There are so many choices, you really can personalize this unit plan however you’d like!

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Curriculum  /  ELA  /  6th Grade  /  Unit 4: Finding Connection: The Outsiders  /  Lesson 1

Finding Connection: The Outsiders

Lesson 1 of 26

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Lesson Notes

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Explain how S. E. Hinton begins to develop the narrator’s point of view in The Outsiders .

Book:  The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton  — Chapter 1

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Tasks that represents the peak thinking of the lesson - mastery will indicate whether or not objective was achieved

Writing Prompt

How does Hinton develop the idea that the way others see him (and greasers in general) affects the way Ponyboy feels about himself? Provide two pieces of evidence from chapter 1 to support your answer, and be sure to explain your thinking.

Sample Response

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Questions about the text that will help guide the students understanding

Close Read Questions

How does Hinton develop the idea that Ponyboy sees himself as different from other people around him? Provide two pieces of specific evidence from pages 1-2 of the text and explain your thinking.

How are the greasers and the Socs different from one another? What details does Hinton use to develop the reader’s understanding of these differences? Provide evidence from chapter one to support your answer. 

How does Hinton use sensory details on pages 4-5 to draw the reader into Ponyboy’s internal world? Provide two examples from the text and explain your thinking. 

Discussion Questions

What kind of person is Ponyboy? How do you know?

Exit Ticket

Assess student understanding and monitor progress toward this lesson's objective with an Exit Ticket.

Literary terms, text-based vocabulary, idioms and word parts to be taught with the text

a feeling of resentment based on something that happened in the past

point of view/perspective

1. a character’s opinion or feelings about a specific topic/idea/event 2. the "lens" through which a person sees and understands the world. This is usually influenced by aspects of their identity, beliefs, and life experiences

Suggestions for teachers to help them teach this lesson

• Ponyboy and other characters smoke a lot of cigarettes in this book. It may be useful to explain that the attitude toward smoking—and young people smoking—was different in the 1960s, because people did not fully understand the impact of smoking on health. Additionally, cigarette company advertisements specifically targeted young people (arguably something that still happens), encouraging them to take up smoking so that they would have customers for life. You may wish to discuss with students whether smoking (or vaping) still makes a person seem cool or rebellious.

Reading and/or task to be completed at home in preparation for the next lesson.

To ensure that students are prepared for the next lesson, have students complete the following reading for homework. Use guidance from the next lesson to identify any additional language or background support students may need while independently engaging with the text.

Book:  The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton  — Chapter 2

While reading, answer the following questions.

What is the setting of this chapter?

Who is Cherry Valance? 

How does Cherry react to Dally? Why?

What story does Ponyboy tell Cherry?

Who attacked Johnny? What happened? 

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Common Core Standards

Reading standards for literature.

RL.6.6 — Explain how an author develops the point of view of the narrator or speaker in a text.

Supporting Standards

Standards that are practiced daily but are not priority standards of the unit

Language Standards

L.6.1 — Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.

L.6.1.e — Recognize variations from standard English in their own and others' writing and speaking, and identify and use strategies to improve expression in conventional language.

L.6.6 — Acquire and use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain-specific words and phrases; gather vocabulary knowledge when considering a word or phrase important to comprehension or expression.

RL.6.1 — Cite textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.

RL.6.2 — Determine a theme or central idea of a text and how it is conveyed through particular details; provide a summary of the text distinct from personal opinions or judgments.

RL.6.4 — Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of a specific word choice on meaning and tone.

RL.6.10 — By the end of the year, read and comprehend literature, including stories, dramas, and poems, in the grades 6—8 text complexity band proficiently, with scaffolding as needed at the high end of the range.

Speaking and Listening Standards

SL.6.1 — Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 6 topics, texts, and issues, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.

SL.6.6 — Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when indicated or appropriate.

Writing Standards

W.6.1 — Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.

W.6.1.a — Introduce claim(s) and organize the reasons and evidence clearly.

W.6.1.b — Support claim(s) with clear reasons and relevant evidence, using credible sources and demonstrating an understanding of the topic or text.

W.6.4 — Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.

W.6.9 — Draw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

W.6.9.a — Apply grade 6 Reading standards to literature (e.g., "Compare and contrast texts in different forms or genres [e.g., stories and poems; historical novels and fantasy stories] in terms of their approaches to similar themes and topics").

W.6.10 — Write routinely over extended time frames (time for research, reflection, and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.

Explain how specific sections of Chapter 2 fit into the overall structure of The Outsiders and develop the reader’s understanding of characters.

L.6.1 L.6.1.e RL.6.5

Explain how Hinton continues to develop Ponyboy’s point of view and identify how and why his point of view changes.

L.6.1 L.6.1.e RL.6.3 RL.6.6

Explain how specific scenes and lines of text fit into the overall structure of The Outsiders and move the plot forward.

• The Outsiders — Chapter 4
• The Outsiders — 00:00:00-28:49

Compare and contrast setting elements and scenes from The Outsiders with the film version and describe the experience of viewing the film.

Explain how Hinton continues to develop Ponyboy’s point of view, and identify how and why his point of view changes.

RL.6.3 RL.6.6

Determine the theme of “Nothing Gold Can Stay” and explain how poet Robert Frost uses literary devices to develop that theme.

L.6.5 RL.6.2 RL.6.4

Explain how Hinton develops different characters’ perspectives and analyze how and why characters’ perspectives change.

Explain how Hinton develops different characters’ perspectives and analyze how and why characters’ perspectives change in response to plot events.

Gather information and create an outline for a fictional diary entry written from Cherry Valance's perspective.

W.6.3 W.6.5

Draft a diary entry written from Cherry Valance's perspective, focusing on using precise words and descriptive language.

Explain how Hinton develops mood in significant scenes in this chapter, and how this chapter fits into the overall structure of The Outsiders .

RL.6.4 RL.6.5

Explain how Hinton develops Ponyboy’s point of view and his reactions to plot events.

Explain how Hinton develops Ponyboy’s perspective, and identify how and why his perspective has changed.

Identify characters' perspectives and explain how and why they change in Chapter 12 of The Outsiders .

Compare and contrast scenes from The Outsiders with the film version and describe the experience of viewing the film.

Determine the meaning of unknown words in an informational article using context clues and Greek/Latin roots.

L.6.4 L.6.4.a L.6.4.b RI.6.4

• “We Real Cool”

Explain how poet Gwendolyn Brooks uses literary devices to develop tone and meaning in the poem, “We Real Cool.”

L.6.5 RL.6.4

Determine the meaning of unknown words through context clues, and then successfully use those words in their own writing.

L.6.4 L.6.4.a L.6.6 RI.6.4

Socratic Seminar

Engage in a Socratic Seminar with peers, responding directly to others by rephrasing and delineating arguments and posing clarifying questions.

SL.6.1 SL.6.1.d SL.6.3 SL.6.4

• The Outsiders
• Sequel Outline and Exposition Rubric (G6, U4)

Unpack a writing prompt, study a mentor text, and begin to brainstorm ideas for narratives.

Create a plot outline for a sequel to The Outsiders .

RL.6.5 W.6.3 W.6.3.a W.6.5

Identify the features of a text's exposition and draft one exposition paragraph.

W.6.3 W.6.3.a W.6.3.b W.6.3.d W.6.5

Write four exposition paragraphs of a sequel to The Outsiders.

Assessment  – 2 days

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The Outsiders

S. e. hinton.

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The Outsiders Lesson Plan

Reading assignment, questions, vocabulary.

Read Chapters 1 through 3.

Common Core Objectives

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.R.1: Read closely to determine what the text says explicitly and to make logical inferences from it; cite specific textual evidence when writing or speaking to support conclusions drawn from the text.

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.R.10: Read and comprehend complex literary and informational texts independently and proficiently.

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.W.7: Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects based on focused questions, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.W.8: Gather relevant information from multiple print and digital sources, assess...

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The Outsiders Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for The Outsiders is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

on what page does cherry has an emotional connection

Cherry no longer looked sick, only sad. "I'll bet you think the Socs have it made. The rich kids, the West-side Socs. I'll tell you something, Ponyboy, and it may come as a surprise. We have troubles you've never even heard of. You want to know...

Chapter 7 through 9 questions

A) Soda and Sandy’s relationship is over because Sandy got pregnant and went to live with her grandmother in Florida.

"Look," Steve said, surprisingly angry, "does he have to draw you a picture? It was either that or get married, and her parents...

why do you think johhny wasn't scared, depsite the obvious danger?

Johnny is a sensitive boy. He cares for others, especially those that are helpless like the children. This is perhaps because he has felt so helpless in his own childhood. It is also probable their cigarettes started the fire.

Study Guide for The Outsiders

The Outsiders study guide contains a biography of author S. E. Hinton, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

• About The Outsiders
• The Outsiders Summary
• The Outsiders Video
• Character List

Essays for The Outsiders

The Outsiders essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of The Outsiders written by S. E. Hinton.

• Analysis of the American Reality, Possibility, and Dream found in "Nickel and Dimed" and "The Outsiders"
• Stay Gold, Ponyboy: Historical Models of Childhood in S.E. Hinton’s The Outsiders
• The Socioeconomic Triggers of Juvenile Delinquency: Analysis of "The Outsiders"
• Greater Meanings in The Outsiders: A Theater, a Sunset, and a Novel

Lesson Plan for The Outsiders

• About the Author
• Study Objectives
• Common Core Standards
• Introduction to The Outsiders
• Relationship to Other Books
• Bringing in Technology
• Notes to the Teacher
• Related Links
• The Outsiders Bibliography

Wikipedia Entries for The Outsiders

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21 The Outsiders Activities for Middle Schoolers

September 6, 2022 //  by  Katherine Monsen

I remember reading The Outsiders in middle school and while it was okay, I think that it would have been more engaging if there were more activities done with it, aside from the written comprehension questions and essay. Some are free and some aren't, so you may have to pick and choose, but in my opinion, they are all fabulous resources that I would use with my students. Enjoy and happy reading!

1. Anticipation Guide

A quick anticipation guide can be a great pre-reading activity. It could be done independently or in a discussion format, depending on how much time you have for it. Personally, I would have students answer independently, then share their thoughts in a small group, but you could also make it a whole class activity.

Learn more: Poster 4 Teachers

2. 1960's Scavenger Hunt

This digital pre-reading activity is great because it introduces the time period to kids so they have a better understanding of what's happening while reading and also teaches online research skills. I feel like kids are out of touch with how things were before their time, so this activity can really ground them with relatable ideas. The link is for the word document, which I would shorten a bit, in the interest of time.

Learn more: Chloe Min

3. First Impressions

First impressions can often lead kids to stereotype without getting to know someone. In this pre-reading activity, students will get to discuss their thoughts on images, which hopefully leads to them realizing that we can't always judge a book by its' cover. It compares modern photos with some of the book characters too.

Learn more: Ms. SM'S English Classes

4. Pop! Characterization

Kids will be head over heels for this activity! Funko Pop! figurines are being collected like crazy, so this task will be easy to set up and get going for them. It's a creative way to do character analysis and engaging for kids that like to draw. They can choose their favorite characters to draw and write about or be randomly assigned.

Learn more: Laura Randazzo

5. Who Would You Choose?

It may look like this activity is just a character analysis graphic organizer, but there is also a second part. Students use their character notes and the book to decide which character they would choose to help them in certain situations and then have a class discussion to explain how they made their decision.

Learn more: How To Teach a Novel

6. Symbolism Bookmarks

Understanding symbolism is difficult for many kids and it is prevalent in literature. For an activity after students finish reading, this one is helpful. The slides are included, so just download and away you go. In the end, students will end up with a bookmark too.

Learn more: Slideshare

7. Hercules Book Report

When you go to the link, you'll be able to get a copy of the assignment sheet sent to your Google Docs. The original assignment gave 3 options on presentation formats, but I am partial to Bloom Balls, which takes the traditional book report and breaks it into manageable pieces while allowing for creativity. Any way students present the information, this is a great review activity.

Learn more: Mr. Hudyman

8. The Outsiders One Pager

Final book projects don't have to take an extended period of time to complete. This one-pager can be done in 2-3 class periods and still requires in-depth analysis and creativity. The final product can be used as an eye-catching classroom display. I like how it asks kids to analyze the book in a unique way.

Learn more: Teach Sparkle Pop

9. Activity Pack

If you're looking for a full unit of activities that just need to be copied, then look no further. This downloadable book has everything you need, broken down by chapter. You can also get a printed copy or 30 copies of the book along with the activity pack. If you have the budget for it, then this will be a lifesaver.

Learn more: Prestwick House

10. Novel Unit

This is a free fabulous unit plan with all printouts included in pdf. It is from a school in Kentucky and includes everything you need, including standards and discussion questions. The wanted poster activity seems like a fun activity that kids will be engaged in as well.

Learn more: Raechel Cowell, Terri Smith, Karen Johnson

11. Teaching the Outsiders for Engagement and Inclusion

This engaging package is unlike the others and really caught my attention. It makes kids think outside the box and brings diversity into the book, where there isn't any seen. These 4 activities will surely grab your students' attention.

Learn more: Nouvelle ELA

12. Crossword Puzzle

Sometimes we need a quick extension activity, review activity, or something for early finishers. Here you can customize the crossword puzzles and give students something meaningful to work on.

Learn more: Word Mint

13. Newspaper Writing

Looking for a creative writing activity ? Here's a great one! It comes with all the graphic organizers you need as well. It will take some time to complete, but can be classwork and homework.

Learn more: Teachers Pay Teachers

14. Comprehension Questions

These questions can be answered either in person or virtually on Google Classroom, which is great considering all that's going on in the world. There are over 100 questions included, so you'll have everything you need for the entire book.

Learn more: Simply Novel

15. Figurative Language

What a great resource this is. It includes video clips and digital activities for students to complete. They focus on 5 different figurative language components and provide everything you need, which makes this a great assignment.

Learn more: PBS Learning Media

16. Storyboards

Students can create storyboards for 7 different activities, which include plot diagrams, themes, symbols and motifs, characters, conflict, narrative adaptation, vocabulary, and a wanted poster. I love that they allow for creativity without the demand for students to be artistic. Ponyboy Curtis would approve of these activities.

Learn more: Storyboard That

17. "Some Novel Ideas"

A veteran teacher shares her thoughts and activities she uses and includes links to explain activities or provide the files she mentions. Her introduction to the activities is so relatable as well.

Learn more: Some Novel Ideas

18. Collaborative Poster

This activity is in response to Robert Frost's poem "Nothing Can Stay Gold". Students will answer why Ponyboy reads this poem in the book and then students will get to each color a piece that will end up being assembled into one poster. This is such a creative activity!

Learn more: Study All Knight

19. Vocabulary Activities

Unlike some vocabulary activities , this one is text-dependent and utilizes text-based sentences, questions, and definitions. It would be beneficial in a digital classroom as well. It can be done in a little bit of time each day.

Learn more: Teacher Created Materials

20. Conflict Foldable

This activity is a bit more basic, but still teaches a valuable lesson about the types of conflict seen in The Outsiders. Students are asked to find scenes in the book that demonstrate each type of conflict.

Learn more: Think. Live. Be... Positive

21. Characterization Quick Write

I saved my favorite activity for last. The author randomly assigned characters, which is probably the quickest way to begin. There is a graphic organizer to complete as planning for the final product. This is definitely an activity that will grab the attention of most kids.

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• The Outsiders

The Outsiders Worksheets

Language arts categories, free weekly worksheets, worksheets by email, what is this book about.

The story revolves around a 14-year-old boy, Ponyboy Curtis, and the struggles he had to make against the rights and wrongs of society. Ponyboy, along with his brother Darrel and Sodapop, lost their parents in a car accident. They end up living under the guardianship of Darrel, since he was the oldest among the siblings. The story begins when Ponyboy is beaten badly, on his way back from the movies, by a gang named the Socs. The rival gang of Greasers who the boys belonged to; were the rivals of the Socs. Filled with numerous twists and turns, the outsiders are another classic literature, which makes you think you're actually living the life of Ponyboy Curtis.

Character Sketches

A look at the characters as they and others see them. Fill in each box with details from the text. In some cases, you should use quotes to support your answer.

Who Are the Main Characters?

Ponyboy Curtis - He's the 14-year-old protagonist and narrator of the book; and the youngest greaser in the gang. What sets him apart from the rest is his exceptional literary sense, along with the academic qualification. His parents died in a car accident, which made him live alone with his brother Darrel and Sodapop. Darrel Curtis - Darrel Curtis is the oldest sibling in the Curtis family, who becomes the guardian of his younger brothers after their parents died. The 20-year-old greaser is strong, athletic, and intelligent. He also works two jobs to meet ends and is termed as Superman by his siblings. Sodapop Curtis - Sodapop is Ponyboy's older brother, but younger one of Darrel. He's a happy-go-lucky fella; who is not only admired by all of the gang members but has the looks to complement it. He plans to marry Sandy, a greaser girl. Steve Randle - Steve was Sodapop's best friend and 17-year-old greaser as well. Steve knows a lot about the car and specializes in stealing hubcaps. A tall and cocky fellow; with a strong body who took care of four guys at once.

Reading Summaries

After each chapter, it is important to remember the important events that the author included and why he/she included those events. Summaries should discuss everything that occurred in a chapter; only the important things. When you listen to a chapter being read or you read a chapter, it is important to take notes. Look at the information below to help you with your chapter summaries.

Why is The Outsiders a Classic Piece of Literature?

S.E. Hinton started writing The Outsiders when she was 15 years old and sold it at 17. The whole idea behind a teenager writing fiction was a new element in the era. Hinton claimed that most of the books which high school students read had nothing to do with what they faced on a daily basis. Moreover, it also showcased the struggles which the brothers faced in the wake of tragedies and the tyranny of the rich. The character showed by them ensure that the readers get the right idea of what children go through in society.

Essay Writing

Write a four paragraph essay that answers the following writing prompt. Be sure to use details from the novel( a.k.a quotes) to support your answer. Before you begin writing, you will plan your essay using the outline. You must complete the outline before you begin writing your essay.

Who Wrote The Outsiders?

Susan Eloise Hinton wrote the classic novel the Outsiders. She was born on 22nd July and is unarguably the best young writer of her time. She wrote this iconic book during her high school days, in which she introduced the YA genre. This book started her career as a renowned author, in which she never looked back!

Chapter 1-2 Questions

Identify Ponyboy, Darry, and Soda. What are the characteristics of each? What actions support these character traits?

Chapter 3-4 Questions

According to Pony, why is there is a separation between the Greasers and the Socs? What do you think of Pony's reason?

Chapter 5-6 Questions

Why was Pony upset about getting a haircut? What does his hair symbolize?

Chapter 7-9 Questions

When Johnny's mother came to visit him at the hospital, how did he respond? If you were Johnny how would you respond?

Chapter 10-12 Questions

What does Pony think is different regarding what happened to both Johnny and Dally? Why does he think this?

What is the Main Problem?

The Outsiders remains one of the most dramatic novels ever written. The writer, S.E. Hinton, wrote this novel when she 15 and published it at 17. The coming-of-age story is narrated by one of the main characters, Ponyboy Curtis. The book showcases the struggles of three brothers who lost their parents in a car accident. However, several conflicts make it a controversial read for young children. First of all, Ponyboy is a member of a gang, named Greasers which had poor people as members. They fight with a gang of rich kids, known as the Socs. The story involves Johnny, Ponyboy's friend, to kill a member of the Socs in a fight. When the story gets even more controversial as Ponyboy, his brothers, and his friends strive to become mature adults rather than killers.

Chapter Summaries

Identify the title, author, and topic in the first sentence. State the main idea of the chapter in the second sentence. Begin with a sentence that states the topic of the chapter. Include a sentence that states a main event of the chapter. Include 3-5 sentences in which you explain, in your own words, what happened. Include one or two interesting quotations or details to support what you are saying. Include why the author might have included the event. Organize the ideas in the order in which they appear in the chapter. Use transitions such as "A second event that occurred” and "Another event" or "In addition to". Include enough information so that someone who has not read the chapter will understand the events.

What Moral Does the Book Express?

Apart from being the most dramatic novel in the 19th century, the Outsiders still holds significant value for readers of all ages. Firstly, it shows the importance of camaraderie and friendship, especially by the narrator, Ponyboy Curtis. At one point, he said, “You take up for your buddies no matter what they do. When you're in a gang, you stick up for the members”. This saying holds significant value for Ponyboy; since he witnessed a great tragedy in his young life. He lost his parents at a young age. On top of that, he had to survive a harsh world with his brothers and the Greasers. These people were like his family, and their tenuous friendship helped them become better individuals. The story starts with Ponyboy and a group of Socs (socials). Meanwhile, rich drunk boys drive from the west side and beat up Greasers only for fun. They hate and fear Socs as they once beat up the first group members such as Ponyboy's friend and fellow Greaser Johnny Cade. Johnny and Ponyboy watch movie with their friend Dally Winston including Socs girls Marcia and Cherry. They meet with Socs with girl's boyfriends Randy and Bob. The Bob is the boy who beaten up Johnny but, there is no fighting incident occurred between them. Instead, both girls go home with their boyfriends. Darry slaps Ponyboy due to late arrival then, he runs off to Johnny. Drunk Soc, Bob, and Johnny meet again when Bob threatens Johnny then a little clash starts among them. Then, Johnny and Ponyboy inform Dally about their shelter in state's old church. There was a massive conflict going on in the Church. Johnny died in the Hospital as he saved children trapped in it. Police arrested Dally due to store robbery. The Moral refers to the heroism of Johnny as he saved innocent kids and sacrifices his life forever. It lets us learn that whatever life you are living and how much wealth you have, you don't forget the humanity and should always be good for no reason.

Character Journals

After you read each chapter, choose a character and consider what is going on in your character's mind. Write one paragraph describing the character's reaction to the events in the chapter. Think about the conflicts that your character faces in the chapter. What events are important? This paragraph should be written in "I" form because you are pretending to be the character.

What is the Plot of the Book?

The book Outsider’s theme is a work of fiction. The uppermost message that the author Hinton tried to eradicate class difference that is destructive, pointless, and unwarranted. Consider Chapter#1, page#3, “Ponyboy declare themselves Greaser as their entire group belong to East side. In this, way the author expresses the book’s theme that is class conflict. The purpose of the attitude of Socs and Greasers was their different social classes. It becomes the reason of massive destruction and the lives of many innocent people went in a great danger. As a result, we read the Bob’s assassination due to violence, Johnny’s death, and the transformation of Ponyboy’s life. If we look at the character of Ponyboy’s character Cherry, we learn that all Socs are not the same that means some of them are good. But they have issues that are same as Greasers. The plot of the story revolves around a boy named Ponyboy Curtis, who, along with his brothers, was struggling with a lot. They lost their parents in a car accident, after which the struggles for them began. Ponyboy belonged to a gang of poor children named the Greasers. Their war was against the Socs, who were the rich kids in the region. As they find ways to survive every day, they learn the importance of friendship, camaraderie, and survival. More importantly, the book also tells us how different events and mishaps make us stronger every day. That is, in essence, the true plot of the novel, “The Outsiders.”

Chapter Vocabulary Words

Look up each word and define the word. After you define the word, write a sentence using the word. The worksheets are broken down by chapter.

Why Is It Seen as a Controversial Book?

The outsiders, when it was released, was a controversial book; and it remains that to date. In 1986, the book was challenged in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to be included in the eighth-grade reading list. The problem was that the book had drug and alcohol abuse, and almost every character was from broken hopes. It has been banned from schools and libraries; because it also has gang violence, strong language, underage drinking and smoking, and family dysfunction.

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