Recently, there has been a lot of talk in the state of Texas about revisions that are ongoing for the Texas Education Association Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) that provide the requirements for public school curriculum. At particular issue is the proposed removal of the so-called "strengths and weaknesses" clause in the science TEKS. This has turned into a debate around the theories of creationism and evolution.
However, in the current TEKS, the phrase "strengths and weaknesses" occurs in every science discipline under a "Scientific Processes" heading. The current language states that the student is expected to, "analyze, review, and critique scientific explanations, including hypotheses and theories, as to their strengths and weaknesses using scientific evidence and information." The new language states that the student is expected to, "analyze and evaluate scientific explanations using empirical evidence, logical reasoning, and experimental and observational testing."
It sure sounds to me like the intent is the same, regardless of your personal opinion of the quality of the language. My personal explanation is that the TEA needed to save money on printing, and the fewer words, the better!
The changes to the section specific about the theory of biological evolution are far more dramatic, including being significantly lengthened. However, these are not under significant debate, at least as reported in the news. And if you want discussion in the classroom, note that the introduction to the section now states "The student knows evolutionary theory is a scientific explanation for the unity and diversity of life." (emphasis added)
This just goes to prove that if you mention the word "evolution" you are sure to get debate.
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