- CPD in 5
- Posts
- Retrieval Grids: Building Memory Without Burning Out
Retrieval Grids: Building Memory Without Burning Out
An easy-to-use classroom strategy that strengthens memory, boosts recall, and saves you planning time.
Steve White
July 14, 2025
THIS WEEK’S FOCUSRetrieval grids are simple tables that prompt students to recall key knowledge from different points in a topic or course — not just what they learned this week. They're an easy, low-effort way to boost long-term memory and improve retention through spaced retrieval. A typical grid includes 3 columns (or more):
Each cell has a short prompt (e.g. “Define inflation”, “Name two Tudor rebellions”, “Explain mitosis”). No flashy tech, no marking. Just powerful recall. |  |
THE RESEARCH IN A NUTSHELL
Retrieval practice — actively recalling knowledge from memory — is one of the most robust strategies in cognitive science for improving long-term learning. Spacing and interleaving that retrieval (i.e. mixing up topics over time) strengthens memory traces and improves transfer across contexts.
Retrieval grids combine three powerful principles:
Retrieval practice (Roediger & Karpicke, 2006)
Spaced practice (Kang, 2016)
Successive relearning (Rawson & Dunlosky, 2011)
By prompting students to revisit prior learning regularly, you reduce forgetting and make knowledge stickier — especially when no stakes are attached.
And best of all? Retrieval grids are quick to implement and low-effort for teachers.
TRY IT THIS WEEK
✅ Reflect:
When was the last time your students revisited content from two months ago? Are your starters helping build long-term memory — or just warming up for the lesson?
✅ Try:
Create a simple 3-column retrieval grid using content from:
This week’s lessons
A previous unit
Something from earlier in the year
Use it as a 5–10 minute starter or exit ticket.
No need to mark it — just circulate, check for gaps, and use what you see to inform your next lesson.
✅ Extra challenge:
Let students build their own grids in pairs — it deepens metacognition and saves you time.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR
✅ Struggling students improving with repeated exposure
✅ You spotting curriculum gaps and misconceptions early
✅ Students gaining confidence in previously ‘forgotten’ content
✅ Some resistance at first — but rapid improvement over time
💡 Try building it into your weekly routine (e.g. every Friday), and let students get used to the rhythm.
FURTHER READING
The Learning Scientists – “What is Retrieval Practice?”
Clear, teacher-friendly introduction to the science behind retrieval.
🔗 https://www.learningscientists.org/blog/2016/6/23-1RetrievalPractice.org – Free Classroom Resources
Created by cognitive scientist Dr. Pooja Agarwal. Includes templates, posters, and videos.
🔗 https://www.retrievalpractice.org/classroom-resourcesRoediger & Karpicke (2006) – The Testing Effect
Landmark study showing that retrieval outperforms re-reading for long-term retention.
🔗 https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1111/j.1745-6916.2006.00012.x
WHAT TEACHERS SAY
“I’ve used retrieval grids for two years now. The long-term impact on my Year 10s' memory is huge — and they enjoy seeing progress.”
“They’re easy to prep, quick to use, and great for starter tasks.”
Until next time,
One idea. Five Minutes. Real impact.
P.S. Word of mouth is everything. If you know someone who’d enjoy this newsletter, I’d love it if you shared it with them.
Reply