Text Complexity Analysis of The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
Quantitative
QualitativeMeasures
Measures
Qualitative Measures
Levels of Meaning/Purpose: The book has at least 2 layers of meaning. Ponyboy,
the main character, struggles with internal/external conflicts with themes that include
loyalty, class struggle, identity and social and cultural biases.
Structure: The text has a simple structure and almost a straightforward
conversational style. The story itself is a flashback and told from the point of view of
the main character, Ponyboy. The narration by Ponyboy allows the reader to
experience the perspective of multiple major and minor characters.
Language Conventionality and Clarity: The characters speak in easily readable,
conversational language. Some slang is indicative of the time period in which the
novel is set, and there is some dialect.
Although the Lexile level falls in the 2/3 grade text complexity band, the complexity of
the book’s theme, the issue of social classes, violence to solve issues and gang
rivalry would indicate that higher level reading skills are necessary along with a
consideration for the maturity level of the reader regarding the book’s subject matter.
Reader-Task Considerations
Potential challenges: The complexity of the book’s themes, along with a consideration for
the maturity level of the reader regarding the book’s subject matter.
Instructional areas of focus: R.L. 6.2-8.2, 6.3-8.3, 6.7-8.7, 6.10-8.10
Differentiation/supports: Educators might want to examine the following elements or issues:
social and historical events of the early 60’s and issues surrounding social stereotypes.
Knowledge Demands: Loyalty to your friends and family, unconventional family
structures and class struggles are implied.
Recommended Placement
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Although the quantitative measures suggest placement in the 2-3 grade level text
complexity band, the qualitative measures and reader and task considerations suggest that
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the novel is best placed at the 6 -8 grade complexity band. The common core standards
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text exemplars also place the novel in the 6 – 8 grade complexity band.