Welcome MWTP
Firstly a wood? Is the bigger rounder head clubs, these hit further. Called this because the head used to be made of wood now you can get all sorts of metal heads.
Secondly a iron? This is the slim head club with varing degrees of loft. The higher the number on the sole of the club the higher you will hit the ball, however the higher you hit the ball the shorter the distance it will travel.
Thirdly a putter? this is usually the shortest club in the golf bag and has a straight face (no grooves) and is for use on the green (putting surface) this club rolls the ball along the ground over short distances.

A birdie is one under par for example when you look at the score card if the par is 4 then a birdie would be 3 (3 shots to get the ball in the hole from tee)
The tee is the starting point for each hole.
As for what club to use at the driving range I would go for a 5 or 6 iron, they are easier to swing than a wood and will get the ball airbourne quite easy.
Good luck with your endeavers and keep us posted as to your progress, we're always interested
Best of luck Kiwi