When writing, this gives your paper direction

true. the definition explains it: a word or phrase that modifies or qualifies an adjective, verb, or other adverb or a word group, expressing a relation of place, time, circumstance, manner, cause, degree, etc. this is a dictionary definition that i have looked up in a dictionary.

research question: do the predicted benefits of genetic enhancements outweigh the possible negative consequences of this technology?  

what information do i need to research in order to answer this question?  

-predicted benefits of genetic enhancements

-negative consequences of genetic enhancements

-existing, if any, consequences of the new technology

-possible consequences if the technology is perfected

what sources will have the information?

-scientific research documents or news articles summarizing research

-articles in science and medical journals, magazines, and electronic databases

-books

-experts at genetics: geneticists, scientists, professors

here you go have a nice day