Question

which statement is a theme in the outsiders?

three brothers struggle to stay together after their parents deaths.
this is a story of two fighting social groups: greasers and socs.
strong relationships help people through hard times.
the socials attack a younger boy because hes a \greaser.\

Explanation:

Distinguish theme from plot

Using the Literary Theme and Story Topic knowledge points, we must separate a universal message from specific plot details. A theme is a broad, underlying message about life or human nature that the author conveys, whereas plot summaries describe specific events or characters in the book.

Analyze the specific options

Using the The Outsiders Analysis knowledge point:

• "Three brothers struggle to stay together after their parents' deaths" is a specific plot point describing the Curtis brothers.
• "This is a story of two fighting social groups: greasers and Socs" is a summary of the setting and conflict.
• "Strong relationships help people through hard times" is a universal statement about human connection that applies broadly beyond the specific characters, representing a central theme of loyalty and friendship in the novel.
• "The Socials attack a younger boy because he's a 'greaser'" is a specific plot event (the attack on Ponyboy).

Answer:

• (A) Three brothers struggle to stay together after their parents' deaths.
• (B) This is a story of two fighting social groups: greasers and Socs.
• (C) Strong relationships help people through hard times. (Correct answer)
• (D) The Socials attack a younger boy because he's a "greaser."