I agree with what many are saying regarding not praising innate intelligence. This is something I have exercised in the home environment and I don't praise effort if I know it hasn't been applied.
The interesting thing for me is that DS has always been praised for both his apparent effort and giftedness at school. I'm not saying the school dwells on this but no doubt there has been countless times that he has received praise and recognition for very little effort (test results, competitions, assignments, etc) as well as his innate intelligence. From our personal experience I see this has had no effect on his motivation or drive, in fact I think it is the opposite. DS is very introverted and would never openly discuss his abilities but the fact that the school, well does it for him, seems to boost his confidence and self esteem and his desire to achieve.
