This is a fantastic experiment. I have used it to reinforce a variety of different topics; decompostion, oxidation and rock cycles (clutching at straws?)
The Ammonium Dicromate contains the oxidiser.The decomposition is exothermic and proceeds as follows:
(NH4)2Cr2O7(s) -------> Cr2O3(s)+ N2(g)+ 4 H2O(g)
If you have any other ideas or comments regarding this reaction please email me and I will add them here.