If you were advising your mathematically talented child, rising high school sophomore, would you urge a focus on the hours necessary to prep for top level math competitions, or on advanced math classes--or both?
He has finished AP calculus AB, his math teacher says that BC would not be worth the effort, and he is ready to move on to more more advanced course material.
He is working with a math PhD tutor, who was himself an International Olympiad Silver Medalalist. His tutor says now would be the time to begin serious preparation for competiton--at least an hour one two each day, minimum. Whether or not he does that his high school will probably allow him to move ahead in math in conjunction with an independent study course--overseen by his tutor. When he is a junior, he will be able--as part of a local program--take math courses at the local Ivy.
His tutor says there is a great deal of luck involved in making it onto the US team--only 6 each year, but the preparation may have value to his development as a mathematician. But it's not absolutely necessry. Many top mathematicians have had no great record or interest in compettions, and some top competitors have has so so meh careers.
So is the time worth it? Not everyone who practices a musical instrument for hours a day wins a competition, or even makes it into Juilliard, but I wouldn't say that the time wasn't worth it. On the other hand, he might use the time alternatively in math research.
Locally, he's been the top competitor, without much effort.
Anyone have any experience with this type of decision?
Anyone have tips to motivate a child for whom effort has not been necessary so far?
As a parent, I'm more interested in his intellectual development than medals and trophies.
