I've tried using Fdisk, but it either locks up or stops working when i try to create a primary partition, delete a primary partition, or display partitions.

I've tried using a Windows 2000 and 98 disk to try and format the drive, both experienced problems. Windows 2000 said the disk may be damaged or unformatable.

I can't even load the OS, something happened to it, and it won't boot up.

It was running edubuntu. It is a laptop. Approx. 6GB drive.

And this time, i did some extensive research, and no one i found seems to be having the same problems i am.  

I have access to a DVD-RW drive and an external drive with about 120 GB.

idk what to do and any progress in a forward direction would be greatly appreciated