Bluemagic - I think you hit it exactly. We are in such a transition time that everyone is confused. Our 7/8 is supposed to be the entire curriculum in one year, but it's not all going to be covered. And yes, some of the 7/8 is already pre-algebra so that is why I'm questioning it. If he takes pre-algebra will he actually be taking the same skills twice? I'm going to get a skills list for each one and I bet that will help make a better decision.
On the grades - I'd say his grade is mostly due to rushing and making careless errors. He's smart and he doesn't always pay attention to details.
As he gets older he's a lot less "Squirrel", but he has his moments 
