Final answer:
An essay on how oil has impacted the history of Texas should revolve around a compelling thesis, utilize evidence and analysis in body paragraphs, and conclude with a restatement of the thesis and the broader significance of the essay's arguments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Writing an essay about how oil has impacted the history of Texas requires focusing on key themes that highlight its social, economic, and cultural influence. An effective thesis statement establishes the starting point, with the essay organically unfolding through well-structured body paragraphs, each starting with a clear topic sentence that supports the overarching argument.
Each body paragraph should incorporate relevant details and evidence, such as quotes or paraphrased material from credible sources. Beyond presenting the evidence, it's crucial to analyze each piece, connecting it back to the thesis statement and the wider implications of oil's role in Texan history. These analyses form the backbone of the essay, showing the reader not just facts but also their significance.
The conclusion reiterates the thesis in new words and briefly summarizes the main points, reinforcing the essay's arguments. Finally, it should reveal the broader significance or 'takeaway,' illustrating the impact of the oil industry on Texas and its historical context, potentially linking it to broader themes like industrial growth, societal change, or environmental concerns.