## About noticing - About the conversation

## About noticing (picking up language)

It is possible to learn a language unplanned, unintended and without homework and courses. Typically this is how you have learned you mother tongue. Most likely you'll have learned some of your English in a similar way, by watching television, films and video, or by playing computergames, just by "picking up" the language. Great that it our brain works like that.

Additionally it is good to know that you will learn English quicker and better when you pay attention to language features that you have to learn. The ability to notice language features such as idioms is an important skill to develop.That is why this lesson has a focus on paying attention to idioms. When you notice them first, and practise them diligently, your learning of idioms will accelarate.

## About the conversation you are going to hear

Luke's English Podcast

Below is the recording of episode 616 from Luke’s English Podcast. This is an award winning podcast for learners of English, made and presented by English teacher (and stand-up comedian) Luke Thompson. In episode 616 Luke wants his listeners to learn idioms.

Luke and his friend talk about a footbal player and use 12 idioms

In a conversation English teacher Luke and his friend, comedian Paul Taylor, present the listeners with 12 idioms. They have agreed to both use 6 idioms and mix them in a casual conversation. Each of them writes down the idiom of the other once they hear it (this is mentioned in the conversation). They don't know each other’s idioms.

The whole podcast takes 40 minutes and deals with 15 idioms, in this lesson we concentrate on the part where they insert 12 idioms in their talk.

The conversation is about Paul Taylor’s brother Kyle, who is a professional footballer for the Premiership team Bournemouth FC. However, Kyle is still to make his Premiership debut, instead Kyle gains football experience in another league. Luke shows his surprise. Also Luke and Paul talk a bit about Paul and Kyle's father.