Mathematical symbols concisely represent mathematical contents related to terms by describing their mathematical meanings implicitly. All symbols in elementary school mathematics textbooks are stated as to be read so that elementary school students could understand their mathematical meanings. The same is somewhat true as in middle school mathematics textbooks, however it is often the case that some symbols are difficult to be read and understood because their statements are unclear or different. In this study, we analyze problems and suggest implications on teaching and learning mathematics based on the statements and understanding of reading symbols in middle school mathematics textbooks.