Question 5 • *CR Expository Reading and Writing S1 [E4250OX]
A central theme in The Outsiders is that a person's appearance can hide their true character. The Greasers may look tough, but characters such as Ponyboy and Johnny show sensitivity and kindness, so “Gentle souls are often disguised by rough exteriors” best expresses the theme. The other choices are either too absolute or describe specific situations rather than a broader message.
AI-written and checked against the verified answer.