[Kleon]

“This textbook discusses evolution, a controversial theory which some scientists present as scientific explanation for the origin of living things, such as plants and humans. No one was present when life first appeared on earth. Therefore, any statement about life’s origins should be considered as theory, not fact.”

I think any disclaimer concerning evolution should say which aspects of the theory are debated and which aspects are agreed upon. And evolution is not about life's origins, but how life changes over time, so why should this disclaimer focus on this aspect?

While there remain disagreements among scientists over the specifics of long-term evolution--for instance, the two opposing models of punctuated equilibrium and gradual change--there is a general consensus among the scientific community regarding the basic components of the theory.

There is so much evidence for biological evolution, that I think we can teach it as a scientific fact. We need to teach children that it's the mechanisms of change which are hotly debated and theoretical.

That way, the students understand the scientific process and enter college understanding the major scientific debates of today, not of two centuries ago.

[Last Visible Dog]

I think any disclaimer concerning evolution should say which aspects of the theory are debated and which aspects are agreed upon.

Isn't that what this means:

"Therefore, any statement about life’s origins should be considered as theory, not fact.”