Nikon D3000. How do i do a continuous shoot?

I just bought the Nikon D3000 and want to be able to take continuous shots of things moving or whatever. I'm having problems figuring out how to do this though? I know how to set the shoot on continuos but every time i focus the camera and hold down the shutter it does nothing, one shot, or on then like 5 seconds later another? Apparently it is supposed to do 2-3 shots per second though? Please help? Would be very much appreciated!
and also if you know how to- can someone tell me how to take close up pictures of and eye or something?

The continuous shooting should be in your owners manual. You camera is now set for single shot. As to taking close-up or macro shots you will need a macro lens. There are a few available options and will range in price from about $300-$1, 000.

All lenses have a minimum focus distance. The kit lens on your camera is not designed to focus very close. A macro lens is.

Set to continuous focus mode (AF-C me thinks?) then try pressing longer.

For close-ups use any one of the following; an expensive macro lens, a bellows, extension tubes, a reverse lens mounting adapter, OR a set of very cheap close-up filters.

For a no-cost close-up shot of an eye, set camera to highest megapixel and best picture quality setting. Shoot the subject in very ideal lighting conditions at the closest focusing distance the lens can allow using the largest aperture the lens has. Transfer picture to the computer. Crop the picture leaving just the eye. Voila! Instant close-up.

Simple answer- Move the mode dial to the little running guy.