Honestly, it is an exhausting process to select which books to read in the classroom. This is because every student is different! They have different interests, so it is challenging to choose books that will fit the needs and interests of everyone. Thankfully, selecting The Outsiders novel is a no-brainer! Even though S.E. Hinton wrote the book many years ago, it is a story that resonates with every student! Best of all, there are tons of activities for this novel study that will quickly become a student favorite.
The Outsiders Novel Study
A novel unit has to focus on many aspects. This includes analyzing literary elements, comprehension, understanding character actions, and making connections to life. Honestly, it can seem overwhelming when figuring out where to start. Thankfully, this unit has everything you need when teaching The Outsiders!
Specifically, students will respond to the events in the story through graphic organizers and analyze literary elements. Additionally, they will complete various projects, such as creating a newspaper, and design character sketches. They will even address teen issues, draw subway art, explain essential quotes, and work on final projects.
These activities encourage students to think critically, engage with the text, and explore the issues in the novel.
The Outsiders Character & Quote Posters
If you’ve ever read The Outsiders, you know characters have powerful lines! So, this set includes classroom posters with all of the major characters. Additionally, each character has a poster describing key traits since it can be easy to confuse them initially.
Specifically, there are posters about the Greasers and Socs in general and posters for specific Greasers and Socs. There is even a poster for the poem “Nothing Gold Can Stay.” Students will truly understand what Johnny means when he tells Ponyboy to Stay Gold!
The Outsiders Character Analysis
The Outsiders has some of the most memorable characters! This includes Darry’s undeniable love for his brothers, and Dally’s fight for self-preservation. Honestly, The Outsiders has characters students will never forget!
Thankfully, this set of graphic organizers helps students analyze each character. There are even multiple versions for the assignment. For instance, teachers may assign a paragraph character summary or a longer response essay.
This resource uses the STEAL acronym to help students deeply focus on characters. Specifically, this includes their speech, thoughts, effect on others, actions, and looks. This is a great way to teach indirect characterization!
The Outsiders Final Project
It is imperative to spend time reflecting on a story after finishing it. So, this resource has four options for students to select from! Thankfully, this means students can complete a project in their preferred method to show their true understanding of The Outsiders novel.
Specifically, three of the four projects involve a poster or artwork. Each project also includes a writing component since this is essential for students to practice. No matter which options students select, there is a handout to explain the project, planning pages, and an organizer sheet.
Students love having the option to choose their final project!
Additional Resources
There are many aspects to include when reading this novel. The relationship between the Greasers and Socs and the dynamics of the Greaser brothers build so many connections. Thankfully, there are tons of Outsider Resources to fit the needs of any classroom! These products will help ensure students truly understand this incredible story.
The Outsiders novel is a story students will always remember! There is so much going on between the characters' relationships and the exciting rumble! Thankfully, these activities help students work on many standards while enjoying this novel study!
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