However, you can be asked to read something for the class in any subject, even gym. Try to accept this, and prepare for it instead of dreading it.
Take good notes. You’ll retain information even better once you’ve written it down. Look up unfamiliar words. If you’re reading out loud and get stuck on a big word you didn’t know before, it can break your flow and mess up your confidence. [2] X Research source Similarly, use a pronunciation guide or look up the pronunciation online if you’re unsure how to say a word.
Was your voice clear enough? Is it the right volume? Did it sound timid or confident? Does your body language help you seem more prepared? Are you slouching or standing tall? Were there any glaring mistakes (like skipped lines or extremely mispronounced words)?
Monitor the volume of your voice. Make sure you can hear yourself speaking, but don’t scream. Check your speed. Do you tend to talk really fast when you’re nervous, or slow to a drawl? Try to even it out a bit if so. You can throw in some emotion if you feel ready to do so (and there’s emotion happening in the text).
Read to a friend in class who knows you’re nervous. They can nod, smile, and give you other clues to assure you that you’re doing a good job.
Let your arms hang loose at your sides when you stand. If your elbows are stiff for no reason, let them drop naturally so they hang at your sides. Relax your neck. People who are scared or panicking pull their heads back, so letting your head float to a more natural position will help. Lift your chin. This will make your voice sound more resonant and you seem more confident. [8] X Research source
Picture your classmates as friends from preschool. This will make you feel safer and friendly. [10] X Research source Remember that no one knows how nervous you are but you. Remind yourself that if you do a decent job, you may not be called again for some time because the teacher sees how well you do and moves on to other students who need more practice.
If you mess up a word, or make another small error, it’s okay to go back and correct yourself. [11] X Research source If you’ve made another, more time-consuming mistake (like repeating a whole line), push forward as soon as you notice the problem. If your body betrays you, and you sneeze or feel your voice crack, try not to make a big deal out of it. Quickly excuse yourself (if you need to) and get back to the material. [12] X Research source
If anyone brings it up or tries to tease you, and you don’t want to talk about it, switch the conversation to something easier. “I thought that reading would never be over, just like that video series we’re watching in Spanish! How many more episodes could there be?”
