Pattern matching is an extremely useful feature of the language, and can provide a more elegant replacement for class casting, and switch statements.

Start by watching the video below, which provides a solid introduction to pattern matching.

Pattern Matching in Scala - BoldRadius Blog

Next, read Martin Odersky's in depth introduction to Pattern Matching .

You should be well-versed with Pattern Matching now - double check, just to make sure you've got it!