Can I get a replacement iPod?

I purchased a 4th gen iPod on the 8th of September last year, so it's still covered by the one year warranty.

About a month ago the iPod began to show these problems:

-At times it will run slow. (This is the main problem)

-I sometimes get problems with the camera, where if I record for more than about two minutes it will crash.

-I also have a problem with the battery, where if I turn my iPod off, the battery runs out very quickly. I have since stopped turning it off.

An example is: When I took the iPod to school, I would turn it off and when I got home the battery would be dead. But, if I leave it on for the day the

battery still has a decent amount of charge.

I know I could just go to a tech shop and get the battery replaced, but the first problem I mentioned has become right annoying.

I'm wanting to get a replacement iPod, but am unsure how to go about it.

You see, these problems aren't something I can 'plan'. If I take it to the shop I purchased it from and they ask to see what I'm talking about, I can't just bring out my iPod and order it to malfunction. It happens randomly. So I'm worried that they won't be able to help me.

I know of an Apple store near me, if I had a letter or something from Apple, perhaps I could take it there and get a replacement without a hassle?

I'm pretty sure this is out of the question and I'm not expecting this; but am is it possible for me to get a money refund, so I could put in some extra money and get a 5th gen?

Someone please tell me how to go about this. Thankyou!