How we cite our quotes:
Quote #7
"Anything you think is important enough to write down. And it isn't a reference theme; I want your own ideas and your own experiences." (12.10)
Ponyboy's teacher does what the best teachers do – he takes Pony's position into account, and personalizes the assignment and instructions with Pony's maximum benefit in mind.
Quote #8
So I started writing names across the paper. Darrel Shaynne Curtis, Jr. Soda Patrick Curtis. Ponyboy Michael Curtis. Then I drew horses all over it. That was going to get a good grade like all git-out. (12.25)
Pony doesn't know it yet, but he's pre-writing – warming up for the serious business. Drawing horses and writing names might seem like a waste of time, but that's probably helping Pony collect his organize his thoughts, and find out where to start.