Ethnomathematics Exploration of the Traditional Game of Kites in Geometry Learning in Elementary Schools
Keywords:
ethnomathematics, kite, geometry, contextual learning, elementary school.Abstract
This study aims to explore ethnomathematical concepts in the traditional kite game and integrate them into geometry learning in elementary schools. The traditional kite, as part of Indonesia’s local cultural heritage, embodies various geometric concepts such as plane figures (kite, triangle, square), symmetry, angles, diagonals, perimeter, and area. This research employs a descriptive qualitative approach using observation, interviews, and documentation techniques. The findings indicate that the structure and construction process of kites can serve as meaningful real-life contexts for understanding the properties of plane figures and the relationships among geometric elements. The integration of ethnomathematics through traditional games has been shown to enhance students’ conceptual understanding, increase learning motivation, and foster appreciation for local culture. This culturally based learning approach also supports contextual teaching aligned with the cognitive development characteristics of elementary school students. Therefore, the exploration of ethnomathematics in traditional kite games has strong potential as an innovative alternative for meaningful, engaging, and relevant geometry instruction in elementary education.
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