# First steps: Ordering a drink

**Language:** Arabic  
**CEFR Level:** A1  

> Master ordering at a counter by listening to Nadia and Karim's conversation about coffee on a quiet morning. It may feel challenging at first, but by the end of this course you will be able to fully understand and participate.

**Setting:** A small café on a corner in Zamalek in Cairo, quiet in the middle of the morning. Nadia comes in most days and Karim is alone behind the counter. Both speak to each other politely throughout.

## Lessons

### 1. Ordering a drink at a counter

Karim invites Nadia to order, she does not catch it, and he asks again.

### 2. Choosing a size

Nadia asks for a small coffee and then changes her mind.

### 3. Saying how sweet you want it

Karim asks Nadia how she takes it and she asks for it without sugar.

### 4. Ordering something to eat

Karim offers Nadia a croissant and reads her order back.

### 5. Adding to your order

Nadia adds a tea and then closes her order.

### 6. Drinking in or taking away

Nadia says she is staying, and Karim asks her to wait a moment.

### 7. Collecting your drinks

Karim brings the order over and warns Nadia that the coffee is hot.