I dont want my ipod to sync with itunes b/c it will delete my songs + vids, how do i stop it?

running itunes version 7.02 and i have 5.5 gen ipod with preloaded songs from my cousin

I dont want my ipod to sync with itunes b/c it will delete my songs + vids, how do i stop it?
when you hook up your ipod to the computer and where it says the name of your ipod, for example "owner's ipod", click on that and it will have tabs on the top saying music, photos, calendars, notes, podcasts, videos, etc., go to music and it will say sync with itunes, make sure that it is unchecked or when you hook it up it will sync to w/e in your library.

bottle palm