Geometric Structures in Sipirok Weaving Motifs as an Ethnomathematics-Based Context for Mathematics Learning

Abstract

Ethnomathematical studies of traditional Sipirok weaving, particularly the geometric structure underlying motif construction, remain limited. This study aims to explore geometric representations and the structural arrangement of two-dimensional figures in traditional Sipirok weaving motifs from an ethnomathematical perspective. A qualitative ethnographic design was employed in Sipirok District, South Tapanuli Regency. Data were collected through observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation, validated through methodological and source triangulation, and analyzed using an interactive analysis model. The findings show that Sipirok weaving motifs represent squares, rectangles, parallelograms, rhombi, and triangles organized through repetition, parallelism, proportion, and symmetry. Several motifs also exhibit translation and reflection as forms of geometric transformation. These findings indicate that Sipirok weaving embodies geometric knowledge developed through community cultural practices and has the potential to serve as an authentic context for geometry learning while supporting awareness of local culture.