Question

i picked up a kid, and he promptly bit me, but i leaned out the window and dropped him as gently as i could, being in a hurry like that. a crowd was there by that time. dally was standing there, and when he saw me he screamed, \for petes sake, get outa there! that roofs gonna cave in any minute. forget those blasted kids!\

i didnt pay any attention, although pieces of the old roof were crashing down too close for comfort. i snatched up another kid, hoping he didnt bite, and dropped him without waiting to see if he landed okay or not. i was coughing so hard i could hardly stand up, and i wished i had time to take off dallys jacket. it was hot. we dropped the last of the kids out as the front of the church started to crumble.

from s. e. hinton, the outsiders. copyright 1967 by s. e. hinton

1. why do johnny’s actions surprise ponyboy?

1. johnny is scared and defeated.

johnny is thinking about the needs of others.

johnny is acting with confidence.

Explanation:

In the context of "The Outsiders", Johnny is typically portrayed as shy and timid. His actions of rescuing kids from the burning church, thinking about others' needs (saving the children) and acting confidently (braving the danger, not being paralyzed by fear) are surprising to Ponyboy because they contrast with his usual demeanor. The option "Johnny is thinking about the needs of others" is correct as his rescue efforts prioritize the kids' safety, showing concern for others' needs, which is a departure from his usual self. The "scared and defeated" option is incorrect as he's acting bravely, and "acting with confidence" is also part of it but the core surprise comes from his selfless concern for others' needs (the rescue action is about others' safety).

Answer:

Johnny is thinking about the needs of others.