Abstract: The project-based assignments connecting classroom teaching with scientific frontiers were designed in a zoology course by using related Nature and Science papers in order to cultivate self-learning ability and critical thinking in students, and to modify the unfavorable situation stressing on memory but ignoring creativity. The project-based assignments were implemented through group cooperation, including literature retrieval, paper selection, reading comprehension, content presentation, online discussion, teaching feedback, and works archiving. The project-based assignments guided an early leading in academic reading, enhanced enthusiasm for active learning, and promoted communication. The project-based assignments were based on an online course platform, and combined modern technology with classroom teaching to achieve online and offline blended teaching.

Key words: project-based assignments, zoology, scientific frontiers, online learning platform