What are your thoughts/expriences as far as the value/fun factors for these? There are now so many options in middle school and I am trying to figure out which way to nudge DS if he has trouble making up his mind.
Is it possible to let him try all three and then decide?
For instance, to be on a Quiz Bowl team you have to pass tryouts (at least at our school). So, your DS will understand straight away if he likes this kind of activity (he has to be quick thinker and perform well under time pressure).
Chess club mostly depends on the coach, may be fun, may be boring
But substantial progress in chess is unlikely anyway without a private coach.
Engineering Club needs further researching - do you know what they are going to do there?