You can download OpenOffice for free if you don't want to pay for Word for Mac. It works well on the Mac and does much of what Word does--though not all. And it can save files anyway you like so that others with programs like Microsoft Word can read them. Look here:
http://openoffice-software.com/new/home/?affebnid=124&gid=&ovid=&yid=&msid=&hop= howgood
You say your battery is only lasting a couple of hours? That's not right. Let's try a few things first and see if we can improve the battery power--you should get at least three hours if not more, unless you are doing heavy duty things like playing games.
First, run your computer without power till it goes to sleep. Then plug it in and let it charge all the way up. That helps to optimize your battery. Second, click on the apple there in the left-hand corner and pick "System Preferences." Go to "Energy Saver" and then to "Battery." Check off those boxes there and make sure that both computer and display are being put to sleep when you're away from the computer for any length of time. This will save power. Typically, by the by, if you're going to be away from your computer for a while, you need only shut the lid. This puts it to sleep, and saves battery power. Open the lid and the computer comes right back on, no need to shut down.
If your battery power is still short, a couple of hours when you're not doing much, then take it to an Apple Store. It may have a faulty battery that needs replacing. The folks at the genius bar can do this for you quickly, no charge as you're still under warranty.