#9 NARRATIVE: The Outsiders

In the first three chapters of S.E. Hinton's The Outsiders, we are introduced to the main characters and the tensions between the Greasers and the Socs. Imagine you are a member of either group, or you might even be a person who feels that they don't belong in either group.

Directions: Write a Narrative using the following guidelines:

Prompt: Imagine you are a teenager living in Ponyboy's town - Tulsa, Oklahoma - during this time. Write a first person narrative about one day in your life. This can be from the perspective of a Greaser, a Soc, or another teenager who may not feel that they belong in either group. Reflect on the events that have taken place so far. Consider your feelings about the rivalry, your relationships with your friends, and any conflicts you've experienced. Describe a specific event from the first three chapters that impacted you and explain how it shaped your views on the other group. Events to consider:

• the Socs jumping Ponyboy
• Ponyboy, Johnny, and Dally’s adventure to the drive-in movies
• Ponyboy’s conversation with Cherry at the movies
• Ponyboy, Johnny, and Two-Bit’s interaction with the Socs after the movies
• Ponyboy and Johnny reflecting on life while in the park
• Ponyboy getting home after his curfew

Guidelines:

• Your entry should be at least one page long (not including directions!).
• Use descriptive details to show the setting and characters.
• Include thoughts and feelings to make your narrator's voice clear.
• Build up to a moment of tension or realization that reflects the conflicts introduced in the first 3 chapters.
• Include dialogue - SEE RULES FOR DIALOGUE HERE - or interactions with other characters to bring your entry to life. SCAFFOLDING SLIDE for help.
• Feel free to express your hopes, fears, and the challenges you face as a member (or non-member) of your group