5 th Grade Math Activities

Hunting for Prime Numbers

Fifth graders often find it difficult to spot prime numbers; a lot of numbers that seem like
prime numbers turn out to have more than two factors, thus making them composite
numbers. Here’s a fifth grade math activity that turns a lesson on prime numbers into a
fun competitive game.

You will need:

• Printable hundreds chart (you’ll find these online)
• Markers
• 2 or more players

Instructions:
• Print out a hundreds chart available on math websites.
• Discuss with the kids what a prime number is and make sure they have understood.
Time to start the game!
• Players take turns to circle the prime numbers and cross out the composite numbers.
For each turn, a player can either circle a prime number (earning 5 points) or cross out
a composite number (earning 3 points.) They also have the option of “passing” if they
can’t make up their mind.
• The game gets easier as more numbers are eliminated.
• The player with the most points is the winner!

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