Why is TT telling me I contributed too much to a Roth but later tells me I can contribute the same amount to a traditonal IRA?

I contributed $6500 to a Roth in 2017.  TT tells me based on my income I contributed $3040 too much plus any gains.  I agreed to remove it before April 15th.  Now at the end of questions TT tells me I can contribute $3040 to a traditional IRA.  Is this correct and why?  It also ask me if I re characterized it?  I do not know what that means still after much research. I will not be contributing to the traditional IRA with the money from the Roth.  I will send monies from my checking account.  Is this the right way to proceed.  I am afraid if I contribute to the IRA I will be penalized.