The Outsiders

The questions inside

One per chapter, across all 12 chapters — every question is editable before you print.

1. Chapter 1: Ponyboy says he is different from some of the other Greasers. What do you learn about Ponyboy in this chapter, and how does he see himself?
2. Chapter 2: Cherry and Ponyboy come from different groups, but they are able to talk honestly. What do they begin to understand about each other?
3. Chapter 3: Ponyboy says, "Things are rough all over." What do you think this means in the story, and why is it important?
4. Chapter 4: Johnny and Ponyboy face a frightening problem after the fight in the park. What choices do they make, and why do you think they make them?
5. Chapter 5: While hiding in the church, Ponyboy and Johnny read, talk, and think. How does this time change the way they understand themselves or the world?
6. Chapter 6: Johnny decides to go into the burning church to save the children. What does this action show about his character?
7. Chapter 7: After the fire, Ponyboy talks with reporters and learns more about what might happen next. What worries him most in this chapter, and why?
8. Chapter 8: Johnny is very sick in the hospital, but he still talks with Ponyboy and Two-Bit. What do Johnny’s words and actions show about what matters to him?
9. Chapter 9: Before the rumble, the boys have different reasons for wanting to fight. What are some of those reasons, and do you think fighting will solve their problems?
10. Chapter 10: After Johnny dies, Dally reacts in a dangerous way. Why do you think Dally acts this way, and what does it show about his feelings?
11. Chapter 11: Ponyboy is upset and confused after everything that has happened. How can you tell he is having a hard time facing the truth?
12. Chapter 12: At the end of the book, Ponyboy decides to write about his experiences. Why do you think telling his story is important for him and for others?

Example answers

Printed at the front of the booklet, so your reader can see what a strong answer looks like.

Chapter 2: Cherry and Ponyboy come from different groups, but they are able to talk honestly. What do they begin to understand about each other?

I think Cherry and Ponyboy begin to understand that people are more than their group names. Cherry is a Soc and Ponyboy is a Greaser, but they both have feelings and problems. Ponyboy sees that Cherry is not just a rich girl who has an easy life. Cherry also sees that Ponyboy is thoughtful and not what she expected.

Chapter 6: Johnny decides to go into the burning church to save the children. What does this action show about his character?

Johnny going into the church shows that he is very brave and caring. Even though he is scared and has been through a lot, he thinks about the children first. I think this proves that Johnny has a good heart. He does not want innocent people to get hurt.

Chapter 12: At the end of the book, Ponyboy decides to write about his experiences. Why do you think telling his story is important for him and for others?

I think telling his story is important because it helps Ponyboy understand what happened and heal from it. Writing lets him remember Johnny and Dally in an honest way. It can also help other people see Greasers as real people, not just troublemakers. Ponyboy wants readers to understand that everyone has struggles.