Need Linux help [URGENT] PLEASE

Hey guys,
Alright before i get started i have to mention we changed our computer from windows to linux, and i am a total fucking noob on linux and i dont know jackshit,
Alright my main problem is that i do NOT know our root password and my dad doesnt not trust me with it,
Therefore i cannot download java and cannot download,install things that require ROOT password,
I seacrhed some ways to change the root password (booting into single mode)
I done that init=/bin/bash
And got the the root prompt and i typed in "passwd"
It then said enter new unix password,
and as soon as i press a key it automatically goes to "retyple new unix password"
Not allowing me to press anything for the new password
Then it says authentication token manipulation error,
I've been trying to solve this for 2 weeks,and am at the point where its totally and utterly plain fucked me off,
PLEASE HELP!