Learning+Literary+terms

I have given students 45 terms related to rhetorical strategies (writing techniques). They need to understand these terms to help them respond to various essays on their AP test in May. We have 'learned" definitions. We have taken assessments. We have listed (individually and as a group) examples. Five weeks into these terms(given 15 at a time) I still feel they are using short term memory skills. They "forget" from one class to the next. They really need to learn (well enough to recognize and use properly) these terms.

Are there any subject area teachers who use strategies they feel are effective in dealing with difficult content area vocabulary?? These terms are tough, but essential to build on.

Help!!

Jim