How do i talk to people?

[urgh]

I'm really shy and have very little confidence - just wandering if there was any tips on talking to people you don't know...? I have used the 'fake confidence' technique alot recently and it really worked, but i just get really self-conscious and like freeze up when i talk to people i don't know very well. How can i avoid this? And what can i start off by saying to people in my class? I'd really like to broaden my friendship group, as i really love people. I'm fine out of school, but it just seems in school i can't deal with people - i hate people knowing things about me and my life, and most of the people who don't know me very well (who i'd like to talk to) have pre-judged me (as a slag), but i would really like to prove them wrong and be friends with everyone. I have nothing against any one, i just want everyone to be happy and be friends. Please and Thankyou, Peace xxx