Don't know how to approach this guy?

So, to make things simple, I have quite an affinity for my lab partner in biology. He’s really sweet but REALLY shy around everybody but his friends. So my problem is…I don’t know how to talk to him, since he’s not exactly the conversationalist. D: I’m always outgoing and I’m really easy to talk to, but for some strange reason I can never find the right words to say to him. I always feel awkward around him, but at the same time I want to talk him. I don’t know why I am so drawn to him.. it’s just one of those things that’s rather difficult for me to elaborate upon. Perhaps one of you lovely people out there might give me some assistance in conversation? Gracias (: