They'll have to be simple terms because those are the only ones I Know!

Yes you do play it just like a 6 string, just as you said.

As far as the tuning goes. The basic tuning is the same as for a 6 string (EADGBE). The bottom pair of E (bass) strings are tuned in octaces. So are the A and D strings. The remainder (GB&E) are tuned the same.

Hope this makes sense, and good luck!

Cheers

Bugsy