Finding the right lesson plans for The Outsiders can be the key to turning a standard reading unit into a life-changing experience for your students. S.E. Hinton’s classic novel remains a staple in middle school ELA classrooms because its themes of identity, social divide, and loyalty are just as relevant today as they were in the 1960s. However, keeping students engaged with deep analysis requires more than just reading the chapters aloud.

You need a comprehensive teaching strategy that bridges the gap between the ‘Greasers’ and modern-day adolescent life. Whether you are focusing on character development, the ‘Stay Gold’ motif, or the historical context of the setting, having structured resources is essential. Below, we are offering a high-quality free sample of our full novel study to help you get started. This packet includes ready-to-use handouts and test questions designed to challenge your students while keeping them hooked on the story.