Themes in The Outsiders
1.Pick one: Innocence, Loneliness, Misunderstanding
2. In each chapter, give information that relates to the topic/theme.
Chapter 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Examples of Theme
11
12
Draw a
conclusion
The Outsiders Essay
Write a five-paragraph essay about the theme of the book.
Paragraph 1 – Introduction
*Start with a quote from the book that shows the theme
(innocence, loneliness, or misunderstanding). Include the title
of the book and the author, punctuated correctly.
*Give some background about the book.
* Write a thesis statement that includes the theme you are
discussing.
Paragraph 2
Write about how the theme is shown in the first few chapters of
the book; how does the author show it relating to Ponyboy and
the other characters? Use quotes and specific examples.
Paragraph 3
Write about how the theme is shown in the middle chapters of
the book; how does the author show it relating to Ponyboy and
the other characters? Use quotes and specific examples.
Paragraph 4
Write about how the theme is shown in the ending chapters of
the book; how does the author show it relating to Ponyboy and
the other characters? Use quotes and specific examples.
Paragraph 5 - Conclusion
*Restate your thesis statement
*Give a general statement about the meaning of the book’s
theme to you.
*Include a significant quote about the theme.
The Outsiders Essay Rubric
Name____________________________
Category
Possible
Content:
All paragraphs followed directions, had specific
examples and details. Used quotes to show the
theme. Theme explained completely.
10
Style:
Used specific vocabulary, verbs. Avoided “you.”
Kept in third person except at the end when
making a statement about meaning.
10
Sentence Formation:
Used a variety of sentences. Sentences complete
and punctuated correctly.
10
Usage
Correct usage of “there/their” “your/you’re,” etc.
All language used correctly.
10
Mechanics
Correct capitalization, punctuation. Title
punctuated correctly. All words spelled
correctly.
Total
-10 points off per day
10
Your
Score