So, what are your middle school–age girls doing this summer?

Because TechGirlz, the Philly-based tech-education nonprofit, has five upcoming workshops with some pretty cool topics from August through October.
With help from Drexel University, local high schools and technologists, the org has a lineup of activities on stuff as awesome as robots, apps, DNA analysis and network communications.
Check ’em out.

1. Robot Springboard Technology Camp @ Drexel University

It really doesn’t get any cooler than robots. In this weeklong camp taught by Drexel’s Department of Computer Science, young girls will have a hands-on workshop experience with programming and robot technology. It’s open for all girls enrolled in grades 5-8, and it costs $60. (Aug. 8-12)

Register

2. Designing Mobile @ Neumann Goretti High School

Kids who look at their phones all day are more likely to have a really good idea for an app in them. Using pencils, crayons, markers, paper, post-it notes and smartphones, this workshop will show kids learn how to design an app from scratch, how to prototype it and communicating its concept effectively. (Aug. 9)
Register

3. What’s In Your Food? DNA Analysis Using Your Smartphone

“We will extract DNA from sushi and use DNA barcoding to test for correct species labeling.” Sold. Using DNA analysis kits donated by Biomeme, participants will design experiments on DNA testing and get a crash course on the basics of genetics. (Sept. 10) (Registration opens Aug. 21)

4. Programming & Robotics with Mindstorm

In this Downington, Pa., workshop, kids will use Lego Mindstorm Robotics kits to program a small robot to navigate and turn on a solid line. It’s really just an opportunity to learn about light and color sensors. (Sept. 11) (Registration opens Aug. 28)

5. How Computers Talk (Network Communications)

In this class, students will use their laptops and Cisco Ethernet switches to build a small network to exchange information and learn more about how information travels across a digital network. They’ll also hear all about cybersafety from experts. (Oct. 11) (Registration opens Sept. 11)