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Penta Primes
Age 7 to 11
Challenge Level 
Penta Primes
Here are ten cards numbered 0 to 9:
Using all ten cards, rearrange them to make five prime numbers.
Can you find a way of doing it with five two-digit numbers?
How about using one one-digit number, one three-digit number and three two-digit numbers? ...
This problem is based on an idea from Mathematical Challenges for Able Pupils Key Stages 1 and 2, published by DfES.
Why do this problem?
This problem provides a real challenge for learners who enjoy working with numbers and will help children consolidate their understanding of prime numbers.
Possible extension
George Miller, a middle school teacher, suggests a slight twist to the problem as a follow-up: Who can find a solution that has the highest sum when all five numbers are added together?
Possible support
Having digit cards for children to manipulate will help them access this task through trial and improvement.
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