Questions and Answers
What happens to Ponyboy at the park?
Five drunken Socs in a Mustang come into Greaser territory looking for the guys who 'picked up their girls'. A Soc named David shoves Pony's head into the fountain, nearly drowning him.
Why does Johnny go after Bob? What is the result?
Johnny goes after Bob because he is the one who had beaten him up before, and because they had a blade and were going to go after him like they did before. Johnny stabs and kills him.
Why does Johnny react so violently to the Socs?
He is afraid for his life; they have tried to harm him before and are out to get him.
To whom do Ponyboy and Johnny go for help? What does he give them? What does he tell them to do?
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How do the boys get to where they are going? Where are they going to stay?
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Interpret what Ponyboy means when he says 'Things are happening too quickly. Too fast.' Do you ever get a similar feeling in your own life? Explain.
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Why do you think the author included the flashback to when all the guys went to church together? Do you think it was important to include that scene? Why?
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Make a prediction about Ponyboy's 'premonition'. How could this be a hint of something that is being foreshadowed?
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When Pony wakes up, why is he alone? What does Johnny bring back?
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What do the boys do to disguise themselves? Why is Pony so reluctant to do anything with his hair?
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How did the boys show their feelings as emotion overcame them? Do you think their behavior was 'in character' or did it deviate from the image the writer was trying to create? Explain.
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How do they pass the time over the next few days? What do they eat?
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Why does Ponyboy get sick on the fifth day at the church?
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What does Dally bring to Ponyboy from Sodapop? What does Ponyboy learn from it about Darry's feelings?
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How did Dally mislead the police?
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Where do they go in Buck's car?
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When Dally says that his heater 'sure does help a bluff...', what does he mean?
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Who is the 'spy' that Dally speaks of?
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Do you believe that the trouble they are all in is because of her? Explain.
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What does Johnny announce that he and Pony are going to do? Why does he think that it is best?
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Study Notes
Plot Developments
- Ponyboy encounters five drunk Socs in Greaser territory, leading to a near-drowning incident when they shove his head into a fountain.
- Johnny, recalling a previous beating by Bob, retaliates by stabbing and killing him during the confrontation with the Socs.
Character Responses
- Johnny's violent reaction stems from his fear for his life, indicating a history of violence from the Socs.
- Ponyboy expresses a sentiment of confusion and rapid change, highlighting the shock of their current situation.
Seeking Help
- Ponyboy and Johnny turn to Dally for assistance, who provides them with money and a gun.
- They escape to Windrixville, hiding in an abandoned church they find on Jay Mountain.
Emotional Insights
- A flashback to a church outing serves to develop character personalities, especially showing the boys’ bond despite their rough exterior.
- The emotional breakdown of Ponyboy and Johnny reveals their vulnerability and humanity, contrasting with their Greaser reputation.
Daily Survival
- The boys spend their time reading "Gone with the Wind," smoking, playing poker, and eating simple meals like baloney sandwiches, illustrating their resourcefulness in hiding.
Health Concerns
- Ponyboy becomes ill after smoking excessively and not eating properly, showcasing the physical toll of their stressful situation.
Communication and Relationships
- Dally delivers a letter from Sodapop, which reveals Darry's guilt over the way he treated Ponyboy and his genuine worry for his brother's safety.
- Dally misdirects the police by claiming the boys headed for Texas, adding a layer of deception to their circumstances.
Social Dynamics
- Dally’s reference to his gun as a bluff indicates the power dynamics in their world, where fear often dictates interactions.
- Cherry Valance, described as a "spy," feels guilt over the boys' predicament, but Ponyboy argues that individuals must take responsibility for their actions.
Upcoming Decisions
- Johnny reveals his plan to take action, indicating the necessity of confronting their challenges, reflecting a shift in their mindset from evasion to confrontation.
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Description
Test your knowledge of Chapters 4 to 6 of 'The Outsiders' through these flashcards. Explore key events and character actions, such as Ponyboy's confrontation at the park and Johnny's motivations for his actions. Perfect for students reviewing the text.
