Literary Conflict in The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton

Literary conflicts are another major element often taught during ELA units. Building on prior knowledge to achieve mastery level with our students is important. An excellent way to focus on the various types of literary conflict is through storyboarding. Having students choose an example of each literary conflict and depict it using the storyboard creator is a great way to reinforce your lesson!

In The Outsiders, conflict is not only present, but it is also a major recurring element. Much of the conflict that arises stems from the conflicts between gangs.

Examples of Conflict from The Outsiders

( Literary Conflict Lesson Plan • Buy Poster • Buy PDF )

MAN vs. SELF

Ponyboy's inability to understand the violence around him, and his struggle to find strength in the face of adversity.

MAN vs. SOCIETY

Even when Johnny and Ponyboy save the children from the church fire, they are not accepted by society. As Mr. Wood rides with them to the hospital, he judges and condemns them because of their gang affiliation. His prejudice upsets Ponyboy and sets him against traditional society.

MAN vs. MAN

Socs vs. Greasers!

Student Instructions

Create a storyboard that shows at least three forms of literary conflict in The Outsiders.

1. Identify conflicts in The Outsiders.
2. Categorize each conflict as Character vs. Character, Character vs. Self, Character vs. Society, Character vs. Nature, or Character vs. Technology.
3. Illustrate conflicts in the cells, using characters from the play.
4. Write a short description of the conflict below the cell.
5. Save and submit the assignment.