15. The controlling idea of the position paper is _____________.*explanationassertionsthesis statementarguments

The controlling idea of the position paper is the thesis statement.

Here's why:

1. The position paper starts with an introduction where the topic is introduced and the thesis statement is presented. The thesis statement is the controlling idea because it states the author's position on the topic.

2. The body of the position paper contains arguments that support the thesis statement. Each argument is developed in a separate paragraph and is backed up with evidence. The arguments are not the controlling idea, but they support the controlling idea, which is the thesis statement.

3. The conclusion of the position paper restates the thesis statement and summarizes the main arguments. The conclusion reinforces the controlling idea, which is the thesis statement.

So, the controlling idea of the position paper is the thesis statement because it guides the development of the arguments and the organization of the paper.