Answer these questions with depth. Reread passages from the novel to use specific
details as supports. Write the answers on a piece of notebook paper or type them and
print out a copy to turn in to me. Use quotation marks when copying information
directly from the novel and list the page number. This assignment is worth 100 points.
The Outsiders
Chapter 9 – 10 Discussion Questions
1. Why do the two gangs fight? How is Pony different?
2. What is the difference between Tim Sheppard's gang and Ponyboy's gang?
Explain how Pony feels this difference might give his group the upper hand?
3. What do you think Johnny's last words to Pony mean?
4. Why is Johnny's death so difficult for Dally to handle?
5. Why do you think Dally would have wanted to die?
The Outsiders
Chapter 11 – 12 Discussion Questions
1. Explain why Ponyboy might rather have anyone's hate than their pity?
2. What do you think is going on with Ponyboy when he says, "Johnny didn't have
anything to do with Bob's getting killed"?
3. What 'circumstances' does Ponyboy's teacher refer to when speaking to him? To
what circumstances does Ponyboy think his teacher is referring?
4. Why doesn't Ponyboy feel scared when the socs approach him and he threatens
them with a broken bottle? How is this dramatic change different from the
Ponyboy we have seen up until this point?
5. What does Darry mean when he says, "You don't just stop living because you lose
someone"?