Scientists often use shorthand when writing about these things that give the impression they are talking about teleology but they are not.
It is easier to say for example that, "a species of finch evolved bigger beaks IN ORDER to exploit tougher seeds".
Yes, but it's still misleading. The English language has plenty of words to convey the idea without being that misleading. I'll take a shot at it:
A species of finch evolved bigger beaks, and thus were able to exploit tougher seeds.
Much better, IMO.
It is assumed the reader understands the basics. As you rightly point out this is frequently not so.
That's the first mistake. THere is no reason to assume anything. The basics in this case, is the very understanding of the process.