First off, I don't have any earth shattering tips or tricks for you. But I can say that I was just like you during my mandatory public speaking class. I am social and friendly but once I got behind the podium I stuttered, shook, and turned red. Each time I made a speech it got a tiny bit easier. It helps to know your speech really well and prepare super early. Truth is that nobody really pays attention during class anyways. Especially to peer presentations. And everybody is nervous no matter what they say. I left with a B-. The hardest I ever worked for a B-!
I was very happy to have taken that class last October when I made the best man speech at my big brothers wedding. I still sucked but not nearly as bad as I would have. My hands were shaking so bad that I couldn't read my notes. I had to set my paper down on the table. Once I got going I was totally fine. Everybody loved it in the end.
Good luck with your class. Just try your best. The effort will show.

Meg, I get it, I also used to be afraid of public speaking. In fact I would get almost dizzy and faint, my mouth would dry up so I almost couldn't talk. I have taken several steps to overcome this fear and I think I am not too bad at public speaking. First, I went to my pastor and asked him if I could lector, which was OK, but didn't fix the problem. Next I became a Weight Watcher Leader and almost passed out the first few times I ran a meeting, but I started to focus on my audience and tell them what I thought would help them and it began to calm me down. Remember, most of us in the audience have no idea about what you are supposed to say, so no pressure there. Sometimes it helps to focus on a spot in the back of the room and not give direct eye contact, until you get your confidence. I gave a presentation last Tuesday and was complemented by numerous people that I did a great job and was a natural. How funny is that, considering how I used to come across? This is not an overnight fix, but also try talking to yourself in the mirror or recording yourself, so you can hear how you sound. I hope some of these suggestions will help you. Best of luck. You can do it, if I can!!

I was told when I went to school that when your hands shake it may seem bad to you but everyone in the audience can't tell that you are that nervous. Before you go up just breathe and relax. You will never get over that fear of public speaking. Just remember that most of the people are not even paying attention to your speech. Also, if it helps stare at the very back of the room, and not at anybody else. Make it seem like you are making eye contact when you really aren't. But hopefully things get easier for you as time goes on! You will do fine.

I can relate to your fear! In the past, I struggled with getting up in front of people and speaking. Over time I realized that the only way I could make myself feel better was to prepare ALOT beforehand. If I had a presentation in a week I would practice, practice, practice. It can also be beneficial to practice in front of friends or family. Although it may feel different speaking in front of total strangers it can help prepare you for the situation. Have faith in yourself and remember that everyone has the same nervous feelings about public speaking.