No matter how insignificant or irrelevant some bits of information may seem at first, make every effort to integrate them for future reference. You may find them very significant and useful when connected to other bits of information later. Wherever and whenever possible, find a way to dovetail, to connect, to relate classes with each other. Consider bits of information as links of a chain that are tightly interlocked with one another. Do more than is required.
Requirements exist to standardize basic material to be learned.
However, to get the most from your experience as a graduate student, to make it fun and to learn to establish relevancy to your particular needs, it is to your advantage to reach for any related information you can find. Search out who is considered the expert in any given area. Find out why. Use the library. Make use of the resources available to you.