You might use chronological order to describe how a custom or tradition evolved over time.
You might use compare-and-contrast structure to explain an unfamiliar custom or tradition by relating it to one that your readers will be more familiar with.
You might use cause-and-effect structure to explain why a culture follows a particular custom or tradition.
You might use developmental order or order of importance to present facts and ideas about your custom or tradition.
In a chronological order structure, you would start by describing the earliest form of the custom or tradition and then detail its changes and developments over time. For example, if discussing the celebration of Christmas, you might begin with its pagan origins, then discuss the incorporation of Christian elements, and finally explore how it has evolved into the modern holiday we know today.
In a compare-and-contrast structure, you would highlight similarities and differences between the unfamiliar custom or tradition and one that your readers are more familiar with. For instance, if explaining the Chinese New Year to a Western audience, you could compare it to the celebration of New Year's Eve, emphasizing similarities in terms of reflection and new beginnings, while also highlighting unique aspects such as the traditional lion and dragon dances.
In a cause-and-effect structure, you would explain the reasons behind why a culture follows a particular custom or tradition. For instance, if discussing the tradition of wearing a wedding ring, you might explain the historical significance of the circle representing eternity and the societal expectation of demonstrating commitment and marital status.
In a developmental order or order of importance structure, you would present facts and ideas about a custom or tradition in a logical sequence or based on their significance. For example, if writing about the Japanese tea ceremony, you might start by explaining its historical development, then discuss the cultural importance it holds, and finally detail the intricate steps and utensils involved in the ceremony itself.