Fremont Middle School students enjoy sock hop

Around 245 seventh-grade students got a taste of an old-fashioned sock hop Monday at Fremont Middle School in Mundelein.

The students have been reading "The Outsiders" and had the chance to relive moments from the novel. The event included a hula hoop competition, dancing and a visit from Elvis played by eighth-grader Zach Scott.

Comparing prices of goods from the 1960s to today and looking at the effects of cigarettes and alcohol were also part of The Outsiders study.

"The idea behind the activities is that students immerse themselves in the culture and setting of 'The Outsiders' novel. The setting and lifestyle plays an important role in character development, so allowing students to experience it firsthand makes for a much more authentic learning experience," Fremont Middle School language arts teacher Kim Perry said in a news release.