Literary Elements
Symbols and Theme
Character Development
Conflict and Setting
Big Picture Thinking
100

Who narrates the novel?

Ponyboy

100

What symbolizes shared humanity?

The sunset

100

Ponyboy’s love of books shows he is..

thoughtful and sensitive

100

The Greasers and Socs are divided by...

Social and economic class

100

What is the central theme of the novel?

Loyalty and belonging 


200

What point of view is the novel told in?

First Person

200

“Stay gold” connects most strongly to what idea 

Protecting Innocence

200

What does Johnny's character teach us about courage?

That it can exist alongside fear

200

What type of conflict is shown when Ponyboy struggles with stereotypes?

Man vs. Society

200

How does the tone change towards the end of the novel? 

It becomes more somber

300

What is the climax of the novel?

The rumble and death of Johnny

300

The poem “Nothing Gold Can Stay” reflects whats theme?

The loss of innocence

300

Why is Johnny considered a hero?

He saves children from a burning church

300

What does the rumble show about violence?

Violence doesn't bring about lasting change

300

The overall tone of the novel is 

Reflective and Emotional 
400

How does first person narration shape the story?

It emphasizes Ponyboy's emotional growth and perspective.

400

What moment best supports that people are more alike than different?

Cherry explaining her feelings at the drive-in, Pony's conversation with Randy

400

How do Johnny and Dally differ when it comes to how they handle violence?

Johnny avoids it, while Dally seeks it out

400

Johnny killing Bob supports what theme?

Violence has consequences 

400

How does Ponyboy change by the end of the novel?

He becomes more understanding and empathetic 

500

The novel ends by revealing that the story we just read is actually-

Ponyboy’s English assignment?

500

What message does the title suggest?

Some people are excluded by society

500
What does Dally's final actions suggest?

That he couldn't live in a world without Johnny

500

The division between the East Side and West Side leads directly to what major conflict in the novel?

The rumble

500

By framing the novel as Ponyboy’s English assignment, the author emphasizes this idea about storytelling. 

Reflection leads to growth and sharing experiences can build empathy