The Outsiders-Essay
**Select one of the three essay topics below and type a 5
paragraph essay with 1.5 spacing supporting your response. Make
sure you use examples to support your response. One-inch
margins, a title, and proper headings are required.
1.
Which of the characters changed most dramatically in response to
what happened in the novel? Name the character and explain what he
or she was like in the beginning of The Outsiders and the ways in which
that character had changed by the end of the novel.
2.
Who are the “outsiders” of the novel’s title? Identify the outsiders
who are the characters and tell why the title is an appropriate
description for them. In other words, what experiences make the
outsiders different from the norms of society?
3.
The poem “Nothing Gold Can Stay” symbolizes the loss of innocence as
one gains experience in life. What experiences do the “outsiders” have
that can relate to the symbolism of the poem? How can you turn the
negative message that is portrayed in the poem and turn it into a
positive? Explain.
_________________________________________________________
**Circle on to indicate how you rate The Outsiders for entertainment value.
Poor
Fair
Good
Great
What made the book poor, fair, good, or great? What did you like about the
unit? What could be improved? (Please use the space below and on back to
complete your response.)