I'm a Kubuntu (11.10) user so not everything I know applies to Ubuntu, but
most should.

1. Kubuntu has a virtual keyboard under the Utilities menu. If Ubuntu has
it on a menu you can start it and there should be a configuration menu that
allows you to make it come up and stay up.

2. Ubuntu has a very good file manager which I think is called Nautilus. It
will enable you to explore the file structure. If you can open a terminal
it can give you a way to explore as long as you don't mind the CLI.

3. You can install a wide range of file managers: Dolphin, Thundar etc.
Mind you I have no idea how you can install anything on a system like
yours. Again from the CLI apt-get is your friend.

4. No operating syystem will start without a boot loader. It would normally
be grub but could be lilo (LInux LOader) or something else. Very hard to
say, and I haven't heard you mention having any documentation which makes
it a real adventure.

5. My Libre Office, ver. 3.4.4, has the option to save in 3 different .doc
formats from '95 to 2003 versions. I'm surprised you don't have that...

Good luck and keep us posted. I'm sure there are others here who are trying
out the same thing.