Is this a situation where student are expected to solve more complex problems, using novel combinations of basic things they have been taught? If so, that's a good thing, though it should start earlier.
Yes it's a good thing but as he is struggling with it he needs more practice doing this kind of problem. I tried looking for practice books & online problems sets but it's harder to find practice problems that are relevant. Most standard extra practice books are just more of the simple problems.
We found the same thing. Just finding more problem was not a solution. My DS could do those without an issue. The real key for DS was the teacher had daily extra help sessions for all of her students. She really worked to help them learn the material. I hope you find your teacher supportive. My initial impression was not correct about our teacher. She seem harsh and cold in the parent info night. When I reach out to her and ask what we could do to help him. She stepped right up to help with us.
Just remember 14 yr old boys tend be flakes. These smart kids are in classes that require more maturity and responsibility from them. It can be a hard balance between ability and maturity.
My favorite magnet on my fridge say, " Raising teenagers is like trying to nail jello to a tree"
