(1) Points do not reset. Silver is 300 points after you reach Bronze (before the end of your membership year).

(2) YUP on AA is a great way to get tier points. The number you get depends on the length of the flights, 2000 miles being the key break point. I'll let someone more knowledgeable on these sectors comment on the value for your specific case.

(3) Status takes effect as soon as the flights hit your account, usually the next day.

Good luck, let us know how you get on with your status building ^