The Outsiders
Chapter 1 & 2 Homework
Comprehension Questions
Answer the questions in full sentences, no one worded responses. Include quotes where
necessary.
1. Who is the Narrator of the story?
Ponyboy
2. Who are the Socs? Who are the Greasers?
The greasers come from the poor east side and are the troublemakers. They have long
greasy hair. The socs and greasers are involved in conflicts, which is seen in ponyboys
attack by the socs in chapter 1. Socs are wealthier than the greasers.
3. How is Ponyboy different from the other members of his gang?
He is the youngest in the gang
intellectual and Artistic:
Ponyboy enjoys reading, writing, and watching movies, which are not typical interests for the
other greasers.
Sensitivity and Avoidance of Violence:
While he's a greaser, Ponyboy is less prone to violence and doesn't enjoy fighting for its own
sake.
Relationship with Darry:
Ponyboy has a more complicated relationship with his oldest brother, Darry.
4. How does Ponyboy’s relationship with Darry and Sodapop differ? Explain.
He loves soda pop. Ponyboy has a more complicated relationship with his oldest brother,
Darry. Darry is constantly on his case and Ponyboy feels like he can't do anything right in
Darry's eyes, which adds to his feeling of being an outsider.
5. How did Ponyboy get out of his tough situation with the Socials?
Ponyboy gets out of his dangerous situation with the Socs thanks to the timely arrival of his
brothers, Darry and Sodapop, and the rest of the greasers. They intervene when the Socs are
threatening to harm Ponyboy, chasing the Socs away and ensuring Ponyboy's safety.
6. What did Soda say that Pony had a hard time believing?
In "The Outsiders," Soda tells Ponyboy that Darry truly loves him, but Pony has a hard time
believing it. Ponyboy initially believes Darry is too hard on him and doesn't understand Darry's
genuine concern and worry. He thinks Darry's strictness and yelling are signs of dislike, not love.
7. What are two rules the Greasers have for themselves?
Stich together and don’t get caught
8. Who are Cherry and Marcia?
Cherry and Marcia are Soc girls. Cherry, also known as Sherri Valance, is Bob's girlfriend and is
attracted to Dally. Marcia is Cherry's friend and Randy's girlfriend. They are introduced when
Ponyboy, Johnny, and Dally encounter them at a drive-in movie. Both girls are considered
attractive and friendly, and their interactions with the Greasers, particularly Ponyboy, offer a
glimpse into the complexities of the Soc and Greaser divide.
9. What did Cherry mean when she said, ‘Things are rough all over’?
despite the differences in social class and material possessions between the Greasers and Socs,
both groups face hardships and challenges in their lives. She is trying to convey that the Socs
Extended questions:
1. Explore the concept of identity and belonging in Chapter 1. How do the characters in
Ponyboy's gang define themselves, and how do they view their place in society?
2. Examine the role of socioeconomic status in the novel. How does it influence the
characters' lives and interactions?
3. Investigate the relationship between Ponyboy and Johnny. How does their friendship
develop, and what does it reveal about their individual characters?
Vocabul
Define the following words.
1. Madras: ary
2. Rumble:
3. Asset:
4. Unfathomable:
5. Incredulous:
6. Quivering:
7. Gingerly:
8. Scowled:
9. Nonchalantly:
10. Milling:
Important quotes
Include any important quotes that relate to the following themes: Gangs, crime and criminals,
parents and parenting, the pains of growing up, grief and relationships.
