Retrieval practice has a ton of research support, but we’re still figuring out the when and how of its effective use in instruction. We read a series of studies comparing the impacts of post-testing and pre-testing on measures of learning, with the results showing tremendous power in pre-tests. Later, we read a study showing how local poems and songs provide viable material for reading instruction. The added benefits of local connections for student appreciation offer a powerful tool for facilitating student learning.