I've been a lecturer, and my husband is a professor, so let me tell you what they want from students: don't miss appointments (or give notice ahead of time). try to do the homework and reading before you ask questions. be specific about the question, don't just say "I don't get it."

but nobody minds students being wrong, or using the wrong terms, or having questions generally even if they are "stupid" questions. As long as you're making an effort, most instructors will bend over backwards to help you.

Also, I promise you, if your prof even remembers your email, as has had time to read it yet, he is not thinking how stupid you are. people who send email are expressing interest in the material, and the desire to understand it, and that's good. you don't need to feel embarrassed in class.

thea