OUTSIDERS ESSAY QUESTIONS

Directions:

Choose one question to answer (worth 30 points). You can answer two questions for your second quarter extra credit opportunity (worth 15 points extra). REMEMBER TO RESPOND DIRECTLY TO THE PROMPT. Do not include unnecessary information. Be specific and focused as you write. It is a good idea to create a short list or outline before you begin. Length should be 3-5 paragraphs (about one page - DOUBLE SPACED).

Use these materials to help you: Outsiders novel, your notes and previous quizzes, reading packets, essay grading rubrics. Remember to use concrete details and commentary, topic and concluding sentences, and organize your essay. Make sure to proofread for spelling and grammatical errors when you finish. Finally, refine your word choice and sentence variation before you turn it in.

QUESTIONS:

1. Compare and contrast the Socs and the Greasers. Which gang is portrayed more favorably and how?

2. Compare and contrast Soda and Darry. Why are they both important to Ponyboy's development?

3. Is The Outsiders still relevant today? Why are students across the nation still reading this book? How do its themes span across time?

4. Do you think it is obvious that this novel is the first effort of a sixteen-year-old author? Support your answer with details from the book.

5. Comment on the novel's resolution. Is it complete? Does it satisfy the reader? Is anything missing?

6. What would you change about the novel and why? Be specific.

7. Analyze the symbolism in the novel. Ideas to focus on: Greasers' long hair, names of characters and gangs, Robert Frost poem, Gone With the Wind novel.