Poetic Techniques
A direct comparison between two unlike
things without using “like “ or “as”
metaphor
A response that challenges a counterclaim
Rebuttal
The perspective from which the story is told
Point of View
A brief restatement of key ideas without opinion
Summary
“The teacher’s expectations were ______, so students were confused about the rules.”
What is arbitrary?
The feeling created for the reader
Mood
An opposing viewpoint
Counterclaim
Hints about future events
Foreshadowing
Writing that is neutral and fact-based, not emotional
Objective Tone
“Her improved grades were ______ of her hard work.”
What is indicative?
A central message or insight about life
Theme
Facts, examples, or data used to support a claim
Evidence
Time and place of the story
Setting
The main point the author wants the reader to understand
Central Idea
“The instructions were so ______ that no one had questions.”
What is definitive?
The poet’s attitude toward the subject
Tone
A position or argument the author wants the
reader to accept
Claim
The sequence of events in a story
Plot
Additional explanation that clarifies ideas
Elaboration
“The class had only a ______ understanding of rhetorical appeals.”
What is rudimentary?
When an object represents a deeper meaning
Symbolism
A strategy used to influence the audience
Persuasive Technique
How the author develops characters
Characterization
To explain, describe, or inform
Informational Purpose
“Please ______ the differences between theme and central idea.”
What is delineate?