he's 2E and is challenged with some very simple things such as reading math signs correctly, so even though he's working way ahead of grade level and has high ability scores, he sometimes struggles showing that knowledge on achievement tests...
FYI, programming in general often fails spectacularly because of a misplaced sign, incorrect syntax, poorly constructed logic, etc. It is PAINFULLY dependent on attention to detail. This could be an opportunity for him to work on his greatest weakness, or it could be an opportunity for spectacular meltdowns... or both.
