Ethnomathematics values in Temple of Heaven: An Imperial Sacrificial Altar in Beijing, China

Abstract

Abstract Many studies are proving that learning mathematics with an ethnomathematical approach can improve students’ mathematical skills. Developing and using ethnomathematics concepts are important to raise history and cultural awareness of mathematics. This study aims to analyse the ethnomathematics values of the Temple of Heaven. Temple of Heaven is one of the famous heritage sites in Beijing, China, which bears many ethnomathematics concepts. The researchers applied a qualitative method in this study. The subject of this research is the Temple of Heaven building that is located in Beijing, China. Researchers identified the geometrical concept present in the exterior, interior design, and building structure of the Temple of Heaven building. This research shows the existence of mathematical concepts in the architecture of the Temple of Heaven. This research result can help teachers in making mathematical practice questions with ethnomathematics concepts.