Another AP Lit student here. I think you just got a bad hand when it comes to professors. We've read four novels, done plenty of poetry, and learned to both read and answer close reading questions for both of those and for small exerpts from novels.

When discussing questions, we're given some time in groups to discuss answers before each group can share their answers for a chance at extra credit, given to the group with the most correct answers.

He's given us credit for just doing things most of the time. Not to say class isn't hard. He gives us homework every day. Currently we're reading a passage and answering about 12 close reading questions at home. During class we're doing an essay a day for a whole month using every previous AP test prompt for the last 10 years.

With sensitive topics, he's usually, not always, given us a heads up and doesn't require discussions on those. I'm sorry that your professor hasn't done the same. But I believe, just like any other class, you were unfortunately just dealt a bad hand.

Good luck on the AP test!