RICHARD BRANSON AT TED

Richard Branson – From 15 minutes

Richard at school…

1). Was Richard Branson a good pupil at school?
2). What problems did he face as a student?
3). How old was he when he left school?
4). Which two financial words does he not know the difference between?
5). How was this difference explained to him?
6). Which word does Richard use instead of “rebel”
7). What kind of (unusual) things did his mother do?
8). What did his headmaster say to him?
9). Has he been to prison? If so, for what?

From 20 mins to 25 mins

TASK: Watch this section of the interview and answer these questions:
1). A biography was written about Richard Branson; was it complimentary?
2). Does Branson think the stereotype of the ruthless businessperson works? Why / Why
not?
3). “All you have in your life is your _” Fill in the blank.
4). Does Branson think holidays with his kids are important?
5). Where does he own a “tiny little island”?
6). Which system does Branson feel is successful – Capitalism or Communism?
7). What is the problem with capitalism?
8). Which issues does Branson care most about?

TASK: Q&A
1). Do you agree with all of Branson’s views here? If not, why not?
2). If you could own a “tiny little Island”, where would it be?
3). Is it hypocritical to talk about environmental problems while building and using a space
rocket?
4). Have you ever wondered what life would be like if you country was communist?