Objective To explore the methods and effects of video assignment in the extracurricular practice of fundamentals of nursing.Methods Students of grade 2015 in class 1 and 2 were assigned to the experimental group while students in class 3 and 4 were assigned to the control group. Students in the experimental group were required to practice and make video work. Students in the control group were asked to practice by themselves and submit written report. Skill examination scores between two groups were compared. Besides,students’ attitude towards video assignment was investigated with a self-designed questionnaire.Results The four skill examination scores in the experimental group were significantly higher than those in control group. In the experimental group,93.9% students considered video assignment increased their motivation of practices,97.0% students considered that the abilities of hands-on were improved,91.9% students agreed video assignment improve their group cooperation,97.0% considered that video assignment can improve their communication ability,and 92.4% students considered their nursing practice improved the practice effects.Conclusion Video assignment is an effective method to improve the nursing students’ skills and abilities.