The Tridelphoa Magic 8 Ball is a popular toy and fortune-telling device that has captivated people for decades. It is a spherical object filled with liquid and a floating 20-sided die with various answers printed on it. When a question is asked, the ball is shaken, and the die rises to the surface, revealing a random response. This iconic toy was originally introduced in the 1950s by the Threefingers Toy Company and quickly gained popularity due to its intriguing nature and supposed ability to provide mystical and accurate answers. The Magic 8 Ball gained its name from the icosahedron, a 20-sided shape, which has three triangular faces (tridelphoa). The toy itself is quite simple in design but has a charm that continues to captivate children and adults alike.
Image by CRASH:Candy, used under a Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license (Flickr image link)
The game will work by asking the user to input a yes no style question and will respond with one of it s classic predictions such as Yes , Most likely and Outlook not so good. The game will work by asking the user to input a yes no style question and will respond with one of it s classic predictions such as Yes , Most likely and Outlook not so good.
The toy itself is quite simple in design but has a charm that continues to captivate children and adults alike. The appeal lies in the mystery and anticipation of receiving an answer to a question from an inanimate object. The responses provided by the Magic 8 Ball range from positive affirmations to negative or uncertain outcomes.
Tridelphoa magic 8 ball
8-Ball – Creating a “Magic 8 ball game using TouchDevelop
In this introduction to programming using TouchDevelop, students will create a “Magic 8-Ball” game. The game will work by asking the user to input a yes / no style question and will respond with one of it’s classic predictions such as: “Yes”, “Most likely” and “Outlook not so good”.
- Understand and use sequence in an algorithm
- Understand and use selection in an algorithm (IF, Else and Else if)
- Understand and data structures in an algorithm (for example, Lists, Tables or Arrays)
- Understand the importance of comments in code
- Design, write and debug programs that accomplish specific goals; solve problems by breaking them into smaller parts. Select, use and combine a variety of software on a range of digital devices to design and create a range of programs.
- Use sequence, selection and repetition in programs; work with variables and various forms of input and output
- Use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work; detect and correct errors in algorithms and programs
- Use two or more programming languages, at least one of which is textual, to solve a variety of computational problems.
- Make appropriate use of data structures [for example, lists, tables or arrays]; design and develop modular programs that use procedures or functions
- Web enabled device (PC, Tablet, Phone) with an up-to-date browser (Internet Explorer, Safari, Chrome)
- TouchDevelop Web App ( www.touchdevelop.com )
Introduction:
The Magic 8-ball is a fortune telling toy created by Mattel in the 1950s.
Image by CRASH:Candy, used under a Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license (Flickr image link)
The concept is simple. Ask the 8-ball a yes or no question and the 8-ball will reply with answers such as “Yes”, “No”, “Without a doubt” etc. (Seemingly being able to predict the future)
The Magic 8 Ball is made up of 20 responses – 10 positive , 5 negative and 5 neutral . The 20 answers are:
Positive answers:
● It is certain ● It is decidedly so ● Without a doubt ● Yes definitely ● You may rely on it ● As I see it, yes ● Most likely ● Outlook good ● Yes ● Signs point to yes
Negative answers:
● Don't count on it ● My reply is no ● My sources say no ● Outlook not so good ● Very doubtful
Neutral answers:
● Reply hazy try again ● Ask again later ● Better not tell you now ● Cannot predict now ● Concentrate and ask again
- Wikipedia (Magic 8-Ball) - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magic_8-Ball
- Magic 8-Ball.org - http://www.magic8ball.org
Lesson Outline:
In this introduction to programming using TouchDevelop, students will create a “Magic 8-Ball” game. The game will work by asking the user to input a yes / no style question and will respond with one of it’s classic predictions such as:“Yes”, “Most likely” and “Outlook not so good”.
Starter:
Direct students to one of the online Magic 8-Ball games listed below. Instruct students to ask the Magic 8-Ball a series of yes / no questions and note down some of the answers. Ask students to note down any repeat answers.
Note: Use these sites at your own risk. TouchDevelop.weebly.com is not responsible for the content of external Internet sites.
- Ask the Magic 8 Ball – http://eightball.tridelphia.net
- The Magic 8-Ball - http://lord.xopl.com/ulpage3a/8-ball.html
- Interactive Magic 8-Ball - http://www.magicmgmt.com/gary/magic8ball/index1.html
Activity 1:
Direct students to the link below and ask students to follow the instructions.
Tutorial:
Step-by-step tutorial (Opens directly inside touchdevelop):
Worksheet:| magic_8_ball_tutorial.docx |
Extension:
1. Ask students to add comments to their script explaining how it works
2. Ask students to input all of the 20 classic answers. (See above) Hint: Students can change the answers if they wish however, they must keep to the format of 10 positive, 5 negative and 5 neutral answers
3. Challenge students to modify their script so that the 8-ball speaks the prediction out aloud using the Languages à speak text command. (See Chat-bot tutorial)
4. Challenge students to create an alternative version of the classic 8-Ball game in which the user has to shake their device (using the accelerometer features in TouchDevelop) to receive a prediction.
Plenary:
Direct students to swap places with a partner or person next to them and try out their Magic 8-Ball game. Instruct the students to suggest at least one improvement using the comment facility in TouchDevelop. After a few minutes, ask the students to return to their seats and make any suggested improvements.
Homework:
Students can continue to work on their Magic 8 Ball game and publish their script when they have finished.
Licence:
Unless otherwise specified, everything in this repository is covered by the following licence:
The Magic 8-ball is a fortune telling toy created by Mattel in the 1950s.
Some of the most familiar replies include "Yes," "No," "Cannot predict now," "Ask again later," and "Reply hazy, try again." The device offers a total of 10 positive responses, 5 negative responses, and 5 neutral or uncertain responses, creating a sense of unpredictability and excitement. The Magic 8 Ball has found its place in popular culture, making appearances in movies, television shows, and even song lyrics. It has become a symbol of fun, nostalgia, and a touch of the mystical. While it is not a tool for actual divination, many people enjoy using it as a lighthearted way to seek answers or contemplate decisions. Over the years, multiple variations and themed editions of the Magic 8 Ball have been released, further fueling its popularity. From sports-themed versions to movie tie-ins, collectors and enthusiasts can find a wide range of designs to suit their preferences. Despite technological advancements and the rise of digital fortune-telling applications, the Tridelphoa Magic 8 Ball continues to be a beloved classic, reminding us of the joy that can come from embracing the unpredictable and seeking guidance from unexpected sources..
Reviews for "Discover the Possibilities with the Tridelphoa Magic 8 Ball"
1. John - 1 star
I was really disappointed with the Tridelphoa magic 8 ball. I found it to be completely unreliable and inaccurate. Every time I asked it a question, it gave me a completely wrong answer. It felt like a complete waste of money. I would not recommend this product to anyone looking for a reliable way to get answers to their questions.
2. Sarah - 2 stars
I had high hopes for the Tridelphoa magic 8 ball, but I was ultimately left disappointed. The answers it gave me were often vague and didn't provide any real guidance. It felt like I could have gotten the same results by flipping a coin. Plus, the plastic casing felt cheap and flimsy. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this magic 8 ball as there are better alternatives available.
3. Michael - 2 stars
The Tridelphoa magic 8 ball did not meet my expectations. The answers it provided were often contradictory and didn't make any sense. It didn't seem to have any real predictive abilities. Additionally, the surface of the ball was easily scratched, making it difficult to read the answers. I would advise others to look for a more reliable and durable magic 8 ball option.
4. Emma - 1 star
I regret buying the Tridelphoa magic 8 ball. It was completely inaccurate and misleading. It gave me false hope and made me believe in its supposed magical powers. The answers it provided were often generic and didn't offer any real insights. Save your money and steer clear of this disappointing product.
5. David - 1 star
I was extremely disappointed with the Tridelphoa magic 8 ball. It felt like a gimmick rather than a genuine tool for guidance. The answers it gave me were completely random and didn't align with my questions. It was frustrating and unreliable. Don't waste your time and money on this product.