1. SOAPSTone STRATEGY FOR READING and Analysis --Collegeboard AP Central

2. S stands for Speaker. –The voice that tells the story –Who are you? What details are they revealing? Why is it important that the audience know who you are?

3. O stands for Occasion –The time and place of the piece; the context that prompted the writing. –All writers are influenced by the larger occasion; an environment of ideas, attitudes, and emotions that swirl around a broad issue. –How does knowledge of the larger occasionand the immediate occasion affect what is being written about?

4. A stands for Audience –The group of readers to whom this piece is directed. This will affect how and why a particular piece of text is written. –What are the characteristics of this group? Why are you addressing them?

5. P stands for Purpose –The reason behind the text. Consider the purpose of the text in order to develop the thesis or argument and its logic. –How does the author want the audience to respond?

6. S Stands for Subject –State the subject in a few words or phrases. This will help you focus on the intended task throughout the writing. –What is the passage talking about?

7. T stands for Tone –The attitude of the author. –Tone extends meaning beyond the literal. It is established through word choice, syntax, imagery. –What attitude is the reader suppose to feel? How does the attitude enhance the effectiveness of the piece.