The Outsiders Powerpoint, Research Projects, & Note-Taking Sheets

Explore S.E. Hinton’s The Outsiders with this thoughtfully designed 4-week literature unit created for upper middle and high school students or homeschoolers. This all-in-one resource includes an easy-to-use PowerPoint course, 10 in-depth research projects, and 20 guided note-taking sheets that support literary analysis, character exploration, historical background, and theme-based discussions.

INCLUDED IN THIS RESOURCE:

✔️4-week editable PowerPoint literature course (20+ slides)

✔️10 research-based projects with detailed instructions

✔️20 printable, guided note-taking sheets for close reading

✔️Discussion and wrap-up questions that foster deep reflection

✔️Character analysis, theme exploration, and symbolism coverage

✔️Compatible with in-person, hybrid, or digital instruction

TOPICS INCLUDED:

✔️Historical context of 1960s class conflict and gang culture

✔️Character development and relationships

✔️Symbolism:  “Stay gold” and beyond

✔️Literary elements: narration, conflict, tone, setting

✔️Societal expectations, family structure, and loyalty

✔️Thematic connections to identity, redemption, and resilience

This resource goes beyond basic plot summaries and chapter worksheets. The PowerPoint guides students through nuanced character arcs, recurring symbols, and historical context that deepen understanding. Each week is designed with both structure and flexibility, helping students/homeschoolers engage meaningfully with themes like loyalty, belonging, and personal transformation.

The 10 research projects are especially powerful for connecting the novel to broader social and cultural issues—from juvenile justice and gender roles to class conflict in America. Each includes research questions and task directions to develop inquiry and presentation skills.

The 20 note-taking sheets help students/homeschoolers annotate with purpose, collect text evidence, track character changes, and prepare for deeper discussion or writing tasks. These tools give structure to independent or guided reading and help students/homeschoolers build strong habits for analyzing literature.

The Outsiders 4-Week Course PowerPoint, Research Projects, and Note-Taking Sheets offer an all-in-one solution for teaching this classic novel with depth, rigor, and relevance. Ideal for teachers and homeschool families alike, this resource empowers students to think critically, reflect personally, and engage with literature in a meaningful way. Bring your ELA curriculum to life—and let your students discover what it truly means to “stay gold.”

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Thank you for your support!

Tina - Big Easy Homeschooling Mom