<p>An unmotivated child won’t do the work in an easy class either. Perhaps your child isn’t motivated because he is bored. Let him be challenged and he may be more motivated to do the work. WHO wants him to study engineering? You, the parent? Unless that is HIS goal he will find a way to not be eligible for it. A sure way to make him an underachiever is to emphasize the work and grades he needs to get into a good engineering school. Not every smart person is suited to an engineering style. A love and ability in math and science may be better pursued in the pure sciences for some. My gifted son is no engineer- not interested in the hands on, practical. He often chose to not do work (got a 5 on the AP Chemistry exam the semester he got a C in the course- he had senioritis and ended his HS years with a whimper, not a bang).</p>
<p>It sounds like you need to find out how to motivate your child to perform up to his ability. Do not pressure him with threats of a career he may not want. If he is the one who wants to be an engineer point out how doing well in the top classes (the word rigorous will scare him) is the best way to get into ANY school for engineering. If something else find out what it is and tell him how good grades in top will help him get what he wants. You may want his HS guidance counselor to talk about things if he resists what his parents try to tell him. You may also want to talk to the HS GC yourself about how to motivate your child.</p>