S.E. Hinton's The Outsiders is the anchor text in a unit that asks readers to reflect on their own identity, their place in their family, in groups with which they identify, and in school. 

Concepts

identity, self identity, gangs

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Additional Tags

english language arts

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Instructional Ideas

• Begin by showing the initial fight scenes in the film versions of Romeo and Juliet and West Side Story, and lead a discussion of how the language and mode of dress in these stories may seem dated, as the central concepts are universal and timeless
• Prior to beginning the unit, investigate support services available in your school and in your community

Classroom Considerations

• Because controversy still surrounds this story of gang violence, and because the book is frequently banned, check to see if the novel is on your district's list of approved reading materials
• A protocol for the safe, respectful discussion of highly emotional issues must be in place

Pros

• The 59-page packet includes an overview of and a rationale for the unit, detailed plans, worksheets, journal prompts, activities, the portfolio assignment, a rubric, and links to related websites

Cons

Common Core

RL.8.1 RL.9-10.1