T - Title (1st Time) = For this section, you make an educated inference about what
the title could mean BEFORE reading the poem. Typically, 2 sentences long.
P - Paraphrasing = In order to give a detailed analysis in the paraphrasing section,
you must either paraphrase by stanza or line by line. Paraphrasing is not short.
You read the stanza and then think about what it means. Then, you put the entire
stanza in your own words. A one sentence summary of the stanza is not
appropriate or acceptable. This is one of the longest, most important parts of a
TPCASTT, and it will be graded as such.
C – Connotation = This section requires you to underline, circle, or highlight ALL of
the figurative language and imagery that is included in the poem and to label each
thing you find. In addition, you should label any rhyming words or patterns,
define unknown words, etc.
A – Attitude (Tone) = For this section, you will determine the author’s tone in the
poem and supply evidence. Example: The attitude in
“_________________________” is _________________ because of
__________________________________________________________________.
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
_________________.
S – Shift = Is there a shift in the character(s) of the poem, the time of the poem,
or the place of the poem? If so, provide an answer that follows this format, “In
the poem, “___________________________”, a shift occurs. Evidence
supporting this shift includes:
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
_________________.
T- Title (Revisited) = Now, you look at the title again after completing all the
above. Clearly state what the title means using the understanding you have come
to after analyzing the poem.
T – Theme = What is the underlying, overall central idea of the poem? What
application to life can be taken from the poem? Remember…a theme is not just
about the story…it connects to Level 3…the world, life, etc.