The Outsiders Novel Project

We have spent the last two weeks reading the S.E. Hilton novel “The Outsiders”. To conclude the novel
and bring closure to the unit, you will choose one option for each category to complete for grading.

Choose one from Application: use concepts in new situations

1. Pick out 10 significant incidents in the novel. Make a timeline with the incidents and a two-sentence
explanation of why they are significant.

2. Draw a character web representing the interconnectedness of members of the greasers and Socs and the
link from both sides to Cherry, Johnny, Two-Bit, Ponyboy, and Randy. Explain how the characters are
linked to each other. (brothers, friends, etc.)

3. Draw a cartoon of one of your favorite scenes in the book.

4. On poster board, create a “graffiti” collage featuring at least 5 slang words in the novel. Include actual
meanings and current slang equivalents.

Choose one from Analysis: break down information into its elements
1. Design an award for each main character (choose 6). Write a 2-3 sentences explaining why each
character qualified for that particular award. For example: Rebel of the Year goes to Dally.

2. Take the Robert Frost poem “Nothing Gold Can Stay” (p. 77) and explain its meanings in relation to
the themes of the novel. Write one paragraph and illustrate your point with a picture you create.

3. List at least 6 questions an interviewer, ambulance driver, or police investigator might ask the three
greasers who rescued children from the fire. Include inquiries about their background, injuries, and plans
for the future. Also write the responses most likely given by the greasers.

4. Chart examples of fairness, honor, humiliation, curiosity, loyalty, loss, and immaturity among the
greasers. Include a definition of the word and at least two examples with explanation. For example:
Loyalty means a feeling of devotion, duty, or attachment to somebody or something. Cherry was loyal to
Bob’s memory by not visiting Johnny in the hospital. She felt visiting Johnny would show she accepted
his murder of Bob.

Choose one from Synthesis: put elements together that reflects original, creative thinking
1. Add a chapter to the book written from the point of view of Ponyboy, Darry, Sodapop, Mr. Syme,
Jerry, nurse, track coach, reporter, judge, Cherry, Sandy, or Marcia. Conclude the story of the Curtis
family by detailing what happens to each brother after the rumble. It can be set in the near future or 10,
15, 25 years into the future.

2. Write a five paragraph essay defining the term “outsider” as related to the novel. Express the alienation
that leads to Ponyboy’s errors in judgment. Additionally, apply the word to two other characters (Darry,
Dally, Johnny, Cherry, or Randy). Include supporting examples from the novel.

3. Write a five paragraph essay discussing the importance of gangs to the Socs and greasers. Include
supporting examples from the novel.

4. Write a compare and contrast five paragraph essay relating the similarities and differences in the novel
to the movie version. (You could use your graphic organizer for help).
The Outsiders Novel Projects Rubrics
Application: use concepts in new situations (25 points)

_____ / 10 Shows a clear understanding of the elements of the novel; got the details right
_____ / 10 Creativity and effort are evident in the representation of this project
_____ / 5 Grammar and Spelling
_____ / 25 Total

Analysis: break down information into its elements (25 points)

_____ / 20 Shows a clear understanding of the elements of the novel; got the details right; elements are
examined and analyzed
_____ / 5 Grammar and Spelling
_____ / 25 Total

Synthesis: put elements together to form a whole that reflects original, creative thinking (50 points)

_____ / 15 Shows a clear understanding of the elements of the novel; got the details right
_____ / 15 Supports ideas with specific examples and/or quotes
_____ / 10 Five paragraph essay shows a clear introduction, supporting paragraphs, and conclusion
_____ / 10 Grammar and Spelling
_____ / 50 Total