Cultural History is taught chronologically through the grades as a lens through which to examine all other disciplines.

Cultural History comprises geography, myth, spiritual practice, religion, philosophy, art history, visual and performing arts, literature, architecture, mathematical thought and practice, scientific discovery, technological innovation, law, government, citizenship, economics, and social and familial patterns, and serves as the nucleus of the Ross Spiral.

The Ross Lower School program introduces students to the wonder of our planet, from elemental forces and origin stories to patterns, cycles, and systems in nature and culture. Beginning in the third grade, Cultural History is taught chronologically and is the catalyst for integrating all other domains. Students in each grade study thematic developments in the evolution of consciousness by focusing on a variety of cultures.

As students progress through the grades, they revisit cultures in various periods of history, experiencing an ever-expanding spiral upon which they continually construct new knowledge while reflecting upon previous learning. This approach is designed to foster understanding of historical processes and the use of critical thinking skills across cultures and epochs. Such exploration and understanding is a prerequisite for thoughtful and engaged citizenship in an interconnected world.