Why are the students in your class? What is their motivation? Use this information to help enhance their learning and maintain retention. What is a Career Education Student? understanding how they wish to bring life experiences into the learning process.
Reinforcement is very important- I use a colorful cone. When I throw random review questions out that are tougher and a student answers it, I give that student the "cone of knowledge" their job now is to pass it on to another student if that student suprises them with a tough answer. This not only creates "surprise" but also rewards and motivates.
I use acronyms and silly songs or impressions to assist with comprehension and retention all the time. I will usually allow the students in a group to come up with something. It works great.
