Take a deep breath, let it out, look at the first word, and say it. Then say the next word (breathe in and out again beforehand if you need to - don't try to say too many words in one breath). Take your time, and take it a word at a time. It will also really help if you maybe laugh (inwardly) a little as you breathe out; it will help you relax and dispel the tension that may start you stuttering. The sort of breathing I am imagining is like in the opening to a Tai chi set e.g. 24-step set. Hands palm down rise up and arms slowly straighten to shoulder height - whilst breathing in - before the arms return to rest near hips, palms slightly outward, whilst breathing out. You could say a little "Ha!" here!
o
l, \, `--, `--- `--' `--~ `-~'
`v' ''''' Ha!
That ''''' there is power, "qi" emanating from your palms!
I believe stuttering is caused by tension, and the brain racing ahead in planning and fixating on certain words/sounds/words beginning with a certain sound, and getting itself all tied in knots trying to work out ways around the problem word; basically, the "executive planning centre" gets so tangled up and ensnared in fear of failure and trying to avoid it that the failure comes true - a "self-fulfilling prophecy", if ever there was one.
So, I think the way around it is breathing, releasing tension, inward and even outward dsplays of humour and relaxation/having fun, and slowly building up to a natural rhythym once your breathing is under control.
It might help if you know the structure of the reading passage and can add some body movments or varied intonation, but don't worry about doing any of this if anticipating things makes you nervous.
You could try to show confidence, but if you don't HONESTLY try to relax and ENJOY, EXPERIENCE the experience, such confidence can end up a sham that doesn't help dispel the tension at all (it might, in fact, add to it).
Ultimately, be yourself, honest and good, willing to try and have fun at your own expense, to laugh at yourself, and you will do fine!
