It is imperative that all students keep ahead on the reading. It would be best to read the chapters several days prior to class and visit the chapter tests the day prior to class. The class will discuss information in the book and occasionally repeat some information, but you will need to get the bulk of the "book learning" done on your own. There is a lot of material and you will get the most out of the class if you have the concepts already consumed. Reading well ahead of the schedule will provide significant benefits.
There a few days labeled Skills Review or similar. Those days are a good time to request practice on any skill or procedure that you feel could be improved upon. Please speak up during the class before a review date (or send me an email) so I can make sure any needed equipment will be available at the class.